People with cystic fibrosis in Tennessee may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers and Family Support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a severe impairment that stops you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security taxes. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability starts. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet medical criteria. Cystic fibrosis is listed in the Social Security Blue Book under respiratory disorders, so it may qualify if it meets the listing or functionally equals it. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts usually disqualifies you from SSDI or SSI, but work incentives and trial periods can help you test work without losing benefits[1][4][5][7].
In Tennessee, people with cystic fibrosis may also qualify for state programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. It can cover respite care, home modifications, equipment, supplies, personal assistance, transportation, and more. The benefit limit is $6,000 per person, but actual amounts depend on local resources. Adults with cystic fibrosis who live with family or need help not covered by other programs may qualify. Tennessee also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with medical and daily living needs. Eligibility for these programs depends on income, disability severity, and other factors[2][3][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply[internal_links.ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Tennessee may have additional limits for state programs. Earnings above the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700 for blind) usually disqualify you from SSDI or SSI, but work incentives and trial periods can help you test work without losing benefits[1][4][5].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and state agencies to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_links.Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
SOAR specialists can help you apply for SSI or SSDI, gather records, and appeal denials. Contact a local SOAR lead for support[6].
Some children with severe cystic fibrosis may get SSI payments right away while the state decides. Ask about immediate payments when you apply[5].
Yes, cystic fibrosis can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets Social Security’s medical criteria and limits your ability to work. You must also meet work credit or income requirements for SSDI or SSI[1][4][5][7].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. Gather medical records, work history, and personal info before applying. SOAR specialists can help if you need support[6][7].
Tennessee’s Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities. Medicaid waivers and TennCare also provide health and home care services. Contact local councils or DIDD for details[2][3].
SSDI payments depend on your work history. SSI payments are up to $943/month for an individual in 2025. Family Support Program pays up to $6,000 per person, but actual amounts depend on local resources[1][2][4].
Yes, children with cystic fibrosis may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. Some conditions, like severe cystic fibrosis, may qualify for immediate payments while the state decides[5].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. It covers respite care, home modifications, equipment, supplies, personal assistance, transportation, and more. Benefit limit is $6,000 per person[2].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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SOAR specialists can help you apply for SSI or SSDI, gather records, and appeal denials. Contact a local SOAR lead for help[6].
Yes, work incentives let you test work without losing benefits. If you earn above the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700 for blind), you may lose benefits, but trial periods and other programs can help[1][4].
Medicare covers SSDI recipients after 24 months. Medicaid covers SSI recipients and others with low income. TennCare is Tennessee’s Medicaid program. TN SHIP offers free Medicare counseling[3].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and state agencies to avoid overpayments. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_links.Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
