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Tennessee • Chronic Illness
If you have diabetes in Tennessee and it prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, as well as state programs for health care, housing, and family support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition like diabetes that stops you from working for at least 12 months and have paid enough Social Security taxes through work. Most adults need 40 work 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 your diabetes must be severe enough to meet Social Security’s definition of disability. 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 this may disqualify you from benefits unless you qualify for work incentives or trial work periods [1][5][8].
In Tennessee, people with diabetes may also qualify for state programs if they meet specific criteria. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including diabetes, by providing respite care, home modifications, and other supports. Eligibility depends on the severity of your disability and financial need. Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) covers many diabetes-related services for those who qualify based on income and disability status. Some programs may require you to be on SSI or SSDI, while others have separate applications and income limits. Always check with local agencies for the most current eligibility rules [3][4][7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply on the official ABLE website [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. To qualify, your countable income must be below this amount. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (non-blind) or $2,700 (blind) from work. Some income, like gifts or certain benefits, may not count. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check your eligibility [internal_link: SSI Income Estimator].
If your income, work, or medical status changes, you must report it to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment demands. Always keep records of your reports and follow up if you receive a notice. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes in the official guide [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. Many organizations offer free assistance to Tennessee residents.
Tennessee offers extra help for people with disabilities, including family support and housing assistance. Apply for all programs you may qualify for.
Yes, if your diabetes causes severe complications that prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Social Security looks at how your diabetes affects your ability to work and daily life.
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. SSDI payments vary based on your work history, with a maximum of $4,018 per month. Your actual payment depends on your income and work credits.
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program for respite care and home modifications, TennCare for health coverage, SNAP for food, and housing help through THDA. Local agencies may offer more resources.
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Gather medical records and work history. If approved, apply for state programs like TennCare and Family Support.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits.
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives and trial work periods. You can test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits, as long as your earnings stay below the SGA limit.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Gather more medical evidence and consider legal help. Many claims are approved on appeal.
Children with diabetes may qualify for SSI if their condition is severe. The state may make immediate payments for certain conditions while the claim is reviewed.
If you have diabetes and meet income and disability requirements, you may qualify for TennCare. Medicaid covers many diabetes-related services and supplies.
Yes, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency offers housing assistance for low-income residents, including those with disabilities. You may also qualify for other state programs.
