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Tennessee • Neurological/Developmental
Tennessee offers federal and state benefits for individuals with Down Syndrome, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and family support programs. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, individuals must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For Down Syndrome, this is typically automatic if the diagnosis is confirmed. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require that the disability is expected to last at least one year or result in death. 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 may affect eligibility, but work incentives allow for trial periods and partial earnings without losing benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: National Disability Institute, 2025
In Tennessee, individuals with Down Syndrome may qualify for additional state programs. The Family Support Program provides up to $6,000 per year for families with a member who has a severe disability, including Down Syndrome. This can be used for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other needs. The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with disabilities or complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to parental income or assets. Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices is a Medicaid waiver program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down Syndrome, that helps with employment and community living.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: TN.gov, 2025 Source: Family Voices TN, 2025
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: National Disability Institute, 2025
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities, including Down Syndrome, to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. This helps with financial independence and planning for the future.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center, 2025
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for an individual. Tennessee does not have a state supplement to SSI, so the federal limit applies. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but earnings above the SGA limit ($1,620 per month for non-blind individuals) may affect eligibility. Work incentives allow for trial periods and partial earnings without losing benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: National Disability Institute, 2025
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Changes in income, resources, or living situation must be reported to the Social Security Administration and TennCare. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to understand how work affects your benefits.
For some medical conditions, including Down Syndrome, SSI payments may be made right away for up to 6 months while the state agency decides if your child meets the criteria for disability.
Individuals with Down Syndrome in Tennessee may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and Medicare. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services.
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records, income, and work history information.
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Katie Beckett program, and Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices Medicaid waiver for individuals with Down Syndrome. These programs provide financial and support services for families and individuals.
Yes, children with Down Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through TennCare or the Katie Beckett program if they have complex medical needs and do not qualify due to parental income or assets.
The Family Support Program provides up to $6,000 per year for families with a member who has a severe disability, including Down Syndrome. Funds can be used for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other needs.
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.
Earnings above the SGA limit ($1,620 per month for non-blind individuals) may affect eligibility, but work incentives allow for trial periods and partial earnings without losing benefits. Report any changes in income to the Social Security Administration.
An ABLE account allows individuals with disabilities, including Down Syndrome, to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program for qualified disability expenses.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and TennCare. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for more information.
The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with disabilities or complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to parental income or assets. It provides services and helps pay for medical care.
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your child’s condition meets the criteria for disability. For some medical conditions, including Down Syndrome, SSI payments may be made right away for up to 6 months while the decision is pending.
