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Tennessee • Sensory
If you or a loved one in Tennessee has deaf-blindness, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific programs for support, housing, and healthcare. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals in 2025 is $2,590 per month. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot qualify for SSDI or SSI. Deaf-blindness is considered a qualifying disability if it meets the Social Security Administration’s criteria for vision and hearing loss[1][5][6].
In Tennessee, people with deaf-blindness may also qualify for state-specific programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities, including deaf-blindness, by providing services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. The program has a current benefit limit of $6,000 per individual, but availability depends on local resources. Tennessee also offers Medicaid (TennCare) for low-income individuals with disabilities, which can cover medical and support services. Additionally, the state provides housing assistance through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency and food assistance through SNAP for eligible residents[3][4][7].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Tennessee residents with deaf-blindness can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses. Contributions do not affect federal benefit eligibility up to certain limits[4].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. The SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,590 per month. Earning more than this generally disqualifies you from SSDI and SSI. For SSDI, the maximum monthly payment is $4,018[2][5].
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Keep records of all communications and updates[5].
Children with severe conditions like deaf-blindness may qualify for immediate SSI payments while their application is processed. This can provide crucial support during the waiting period[6].
Tennessee’s Family Support Program offers up to $6,000 per year for services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance for individuals with severe disabilities, including deaf-blindness[3].
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals in 2025 is $2,590 per month. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot qualify for SSDI or SSI[5][6].
Yes, children with certain severe conditions, including deaf-blindness, may qualify for immediate SSI payments while their application is processed. This can last up to 6 months[6].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities, including deaf-blindness. It provides services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance, with a current benefit limit of $6,000 per individual[3].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical and financial documentation[1][5].
The maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. This amount may be reduced if you have other income or resources[2].
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is $4,018 per month for an individual. The actual amount depends on your work history and earnings[2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Yes, Tennessee offers Medicaid (TennCare) for low-income individuals with disabilities, including deaf-blindness. TennCare covers medical and support services for eligible residents[4].
Yes, Tennessee residents with deaf-blindness can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits[4].
You must report any changes in your income or condition to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits[5].
Yes, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers housing assistance programs for low-income residents, including those with disabilities. You can apply for these programs if you need safe and affordable housing[4].
