People with epilepsy in Tennessee can access federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) and state programs for support, healthcare, and community living. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. State programs like Family Support and Medicaid waivers offer additional help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and have earned enough work credits through jobs covered by Social Security taxes. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability begins. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on low income and limited resources, not work history. Both programs require that your epilepsy is severe enough to prevent substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if your epilepsy meets their criteria for disability[1][2][7].
Tennessee does not have its own short-term disability program, but residents with epilepsy can access several state-funded supports. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including epilepsy, by providing respite care, home modifications, and other services. Adults with epilepsy may qualify for Medicaid waivers like CHOICES or Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices, which offer home and community-based services for people with physical or intellectual disabilities. Children with epilepsy who do not qualify for TennCare due to family income may be eligible for the Katie Beckett program, which helps pay for medical care not covered by private insurance[3][4][5].
ABLE accounts allow people with epilepsy to 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, and housing[4].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no strict income limit, but earnings above $1,550 per month may affect eligibility. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size[1][2][7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or fail to report changes. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to do if you receive one[2].
Contact your local Family Support Council or DIDD Regional Intake Office for help with state programs. For federal benefits, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work. You must meet SSA’s medical criteria and, for SSDI, have enough work credits. State programs like Family Support and Medicaid waivers also help people with epilepsy[1][2][3].
You’ll need medical records showing frequent, severe seizures, EEG reports, seizure logs, and doctor’s notes. The SSA may ask for a medical exam to confirm your diagnosis and how it affects your daily life[6].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. You’ll need your Social Security number, medical evidence, and work history. For state programs, contact your local Family Support Council or DIDD Regional Intake Office[1][4][5].
Tennessee’s Family Support Program offers respite care, home modifications, and other services for families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including epilepsy. The Katie Beckett program helps children with epilepsy who don’t qualify for TennCare[3][4].
Yes, children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI if their family has low income. The Katie Beckett program helps children who don’t qualify for TennCare due to family income. Some children may also get immediate SSI payments for certain severe conditions[6][4].
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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Tennessee offers Medicaid waivers like CHOICES and ECF Choices for people with epilepsy. These programs provide home and community-based services to help people live independently and, in some cases, find employment[5].
For SSI, the 2025 income limit is $943/month for an individual. For SSDI, earnings above $1,550/month may affect eligibility. Work incentives allow some trial work without losing benefits[1][2].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including epilepsy. Services include respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance. Contact your local Family Support Council for details[3][4].
Yes, work incentives like the Ticket to Work program let you try returning to work without immediately losing benefits. If your earnings are below the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025), you may still qualify[1][2].
The SSA may take 6–8 months to decide on SSI/SSDI applications. Some children with severe conditions may get immediate payments for up to 6 months while the decision is pending[6].
