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Tennessee • Chronic Illness
If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and can't work, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI in Tennessee. State programs can also help with care, housing, and family support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To get federal disability benefits for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Tennessee, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. You need a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you must have paid enough Social Security taxes and earned enough work credits. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. For SSI, your income and resources must be below SSA limits. You must also be unable to earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025. SSA looks at your medical records, work history, and how your condition affects daily life[1][5][9].
In Tennessee, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may also qualify for state programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This program can pay for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other needs. Eligibility depends on the severity of the disability and family resources. Tennessee also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with personal care, therapy, and support. These programs are not automatic; you must apply and meet specific criteria[3][4][7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Tennessee[internal_link: /guides/able-accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. To qualify, your income and resources must be below SSA limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in countable earnings. Tennessee state programs have their own income and resource limits, which vary by program[2][5].
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much, get other benefits, or your condition improves. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes in Tennessee[internal_link: /guides/overpayments-and-reporting].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. Many organizations offer free assistance to people with disabilities in Tennessee.
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence showing how your condition limits your ability to work and do daily activities[1][2][5].
SSI is for people with low income and resources who can't work due to disability. SSDI is for people who paid Social Security taxes and earned enough work credits. Both programs require a medical condition that stops you from working for 12+ months[2][5][9].
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is $4,018 per month. The maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. Actual payments depend on your work history, income, and resources[2][5].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Medicaid waivers, TennCare, SNAP, and housing assistance. These programs can help with care, health, food, and housing for people with disabilities[3][4][7].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. For state programs, contact the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities or local agencies[1][3][4][7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you must report any changes in your condition, income, or resources to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to penalties or loss of benefits[5].
Yes, there are work incentives and trial work periods that let you test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. Earning more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) may affect your benefits[1][5].
You need medical records showing your diagnosis, symptoms, and how your condition limits your ability to work and do daily activities. SSA may ask for additional exams or tests[6].
The process can take 6 to 8 months or longer. SSA may make immediate SSI payments for some conditions while they decide, but most cases take several months[6].
Yes, family members of the disabled individual may be eligible for dependent benefits under SSDI. Check with SSA for details[5].
