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Tennessee • Learning
People with dyslexia in Tennessee may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) and state programs if their condition severely limits learning or work. Eligibility depends on how much dyslexia affects daily life and income. State programs offer extra support for families and children.
To get federal disability benefits for dyslexia in Tennessee, you must show that your condition severely limits your ability to learn, work, or do daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how much dyslexia affects your life, not just the diagnosis. For children, SSI is based on family income and how much dyslexia limits learning. For adults, SSDI is based on work history and how much dyslexia limits work. Both require medical and school records to prove the disability lasts at least one year[1][2][6].
Common qualifying conditions include severe learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, and mental health issues. Dyslexia is considered if it is severe enough to meet SSA’s criteria for a learning disorder[2][6].
In Tennessee, people with dyslexia may qualify for state programs if their condition is severe and limits daily life. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities, including dyslexia, by providing respite care, home modifications, and other supports[3][4]. The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs or disabilities, including severe dyslexia, if they don’t qualify for TennCare due to family income[4].
Tennessee’s Medicaid waivers, like the Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices program, offer services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which may include severe dyslexia[4]. Eligibility depends on how much dyslexia affects learning and daily living, not just the diagnosis[3][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents with dyslexia may open an ABLE account if their condition started before age 26. Funds can be used for education, housing, and daily living[4].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for individuals. Income and resources must be below SSA limits. SSDI payments depend on work history, with a maximum of $4,018 per month in 2025[1].
If your income or condition changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security and state agencies as soon as possible. Overpayments can be repaid in installments or waived in some cases[1][2].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocacy group for help with your application. Many groups offer free help and can guide you through the process[7].
Yes, if dyslexia is severe and limits learning or work. You must show how it affects daily life with medical and school records. Both SSI and SSDI may be options[1][2][6].
You need a diagnosis, medical records, school records, and proof of income. The state agency may ask for more records or a medical exam[6].
SSI pays up to $967/month in 2025 for low-income individuals. SSDI pays based on work history, up to $4,018/month. State programs may offer extra help[1].
Yes, if dyslexia is severe and family income is low. Children need medical and school records to prove the disability[6].
The Family Support Program, Katie Beckett program, and ECF Choices Medicaid waiver offer services for families with children or adults who have severe dyslexia[3][4].
The state agency may take 6–8 months to decide. Some conditions get immediate payments, but dyslexia usually requires a full review[6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check official sources for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, but there are limits. SSI and SSDI have work incentives and trial periods. Report any work to avoid overpayments[1][2].
You can appeal the decision. Ask for a review and provide more records. Legal aid or advocacy groups may help[1][2].
No, but a lawyer can help with appeals or complex cases. Many advocacy groups offer free help[1][2].
Yes, if dyslexia is severe and limits work. Adults need medical records and proof of work history for SSDI, or low income for SSI[1][2].
