If you have heart disease and can't work, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and state support in Tennessee. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and extra help for Tennessee residents with heart disease.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs covered by 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, and a disability that lasts at least 12 months. Both programs require that your heart disease is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work (earning more than $1,550/month in 2025 for non-blind people)[1][2][3][8].
Tennessee does not offer a state short-term disability program, so most residents rely on federal SSI and SSDI for income support. However, Tennessee does have the Family Support Program, which helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. This program can pay for things like respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance. Eligibility depends on the severity of the disability and available state resources. Families with a member who has heart disease may qualify if the condition is severe enough to meet program criteria[4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents with heart disease may qualify if their disability started before age 26. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses[internal_link_able_accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. SSDI payments vary based on work history, up to $4,018 per month. Income and resource limits for SSI are strict; extra income or assets can reduce or stop benefits[3].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to the SSA. Not reporting can cause overpayments, which you may have to repay. Use the SSA's online portal or call your local office to report changes[internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for free help with your application. Many nonprofits offer support for Tennessee residents.
Yes, if your heart disease is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. The SSA reviews your medical records to decide if your condition meets their criteria[1][2][3][8].
SSDI payments depend on your work history, up to $4,018 per month in 2025. SSI payments are up to $967 per month. You may also get extra help from state programs like SNAP or TennCare[3][5].
Tennessee does not have a state short-term disability program. Most residents use federal SSDI or SSI. The Family Support Program helps families with severe disabilities, including heart disease, with services like respite care and home modifications[4].
You need doctor notes, test results (like EKGs or echocardiograms), treatment history, and a statement from your doctor about how your heart disease affects your ability to work[1][2][3].
You can try working during a trial work period without losing benefits. If you earn more than $1,550 per month (2025), you may no longer qualify for SSDI. SSI has different rules for work and income[1][2][3][8].
The SSA may take 3–6 months to decide on your claim. If more information is needed, it can take longer. Appeals can add several months or more to the process[1][2][3][7].
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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You can appeal within 60 days. Appeals include reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council. Many people get approved after an appeal[1][2][3][7].
Yes, Tennessee offers housing assistance through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) for low-income residents, including those with disabilities. You may also qualify for TennCare or SNAP[5].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. It can pay for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance. The current limit is $6,000 per individual with a severe disability in a family[4].
Yes, if you have low income, you may qualify for SNAP (food stamps). SNAP helps individuals and families buy nutritious food. Eligibility is based on income and household size[5].
