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Tennessee • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Tennessee, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for health care, housing, and family support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked enough to earn work credits and have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources, and your cancer must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. Both programs require that your cancer is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work, which in 2025 is earning more than $1,550 per month for non-blind people or $2,590 for blind people [1].
SSDI is based on your work history and taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need. Both programs use the same medical standards to decide if your cancer is disabling [2].
In Tennessee, people with cancer may also qualify for state programs like the Family Support Program, which helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities. This program can pay for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other needs. The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare because of their parents’ income. Both programs are funded by state dollars and are designed to help families stay together and get the care they need [3][4].
Tennessee’s Medicaid program, TennCare, offers health coverage to low-income people with disabilities, including those with cancer. Eligibility depends on income, household size, and specific needs. The state also has Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which can include some cancer patients [5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents with cancer can open an ABLE account if their disability started before age 26. Funds can be used for housing, education, health care, and more [4].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for an individual. For SSDI, the maximum is $4,018 per month. Income limits for SSI depend on your state and living situation. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see if you qualify [2].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes to keep your benefits [4].
Contact your local SSA office or a disability advocate for help with your application. Many nonprofits in Tennessee offer free assistance.
Yes, cancer can qualify for SSI and SSDI if it stops you from working for at least 12 months. You must meet income and work history rules. Some cancers may qualify for immediate payments if they are severe enough [6].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. For state programs, contact your local Family Support office or TennCare. Gather medical records and work history before applying [1][3].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including cancer. It can pay for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and more. The current limit is $6,000 per individual [3][4].
The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare because of their parents’ income. It provides services and helps pay for medical care not covered by private insurance [4].
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The maximum SSDI payment is $4,018 per month. Actual payments depend on your income, work history, and living situation [2].
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives and trial work periods. If you earn more than $1,550 per month (non-blind) or $2,590 (blind), you may lose benefits, but brief unsuccessful work attempts may not count against you [1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
SSI is for people with low income and few resources. SSDI is for people with enough work credits. Both programs use the same medical standards to decide if your cancer is disabling [2].
The state agency may take 6–8 months to decide if your cancer meets the criteria for disability. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments for up to 6 months while the agency decides [6].
Yes, children with cancer may qualify for SSI, the Katie Beckett program, or other state programs. The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare because of their parents’ income [4].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal after a denial. You can get help from a disability advocate or attorney [1].
