People with intellectual disability in Tennessee may qualify for federal benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and Family Support. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a severe impairment that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security taxes. For most adults, this means 40 total credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability onset. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this amount generally disqualifies you from SSDI, but there are work incentives and trial periods that allow testing return to work[1][5][8].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. You must have a severe impairment that meets Social Security’s definition and last at least 12 months. The SGA limit for SSI is the same as for SSDI. Children with intellectual disability may qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s criteria[2][6][8].
In Tennessee, people with intellectual disability may also qualify for state programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. Benefits can include respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance. The current limit is $6,000 per individual, but services depend on available resources and local council decisions[3].
Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) covers health care for low-income individuals with disabilities, including those with intellectual disability. Medicaid waivers, such as the Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD) Waiver, provide home and community-based services for eligible individuals who would otherwise need institutional care[4].
Children with intellectual disability may qualify for immediate SSI payments if their condition is severe and meets specific criteria, such as severe intellectual disability (age 4 or older)[6].
ABLE accounts allow people with intellectual disability to save money without losing SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program[4].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may affect eligibility for SSI and SSDI[2][5][6].
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and state agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reduction. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for help with reporting changes[5].
Contact your local Social Security office or Tennessee Family Support Program for help with applications and eligibility questions.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security taxes. Both require a severe impairment that prevents work for at least 12 months[2][5].
Yes, children with severe intellectual disability may qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s criteria. Immediate payments may be available for certain conditions, such as severe intellectual disability (age 4 or older)[6].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. Services include respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance. The current benefit limit is $6,000 per individual[3].
Apply for Medicaid waivers through the state portal or local office. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and disability severity. Waivers provide home and community-based services for eligible individuals[4].
The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may affect eligibility for SSI and SSDI[5][6].
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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Yes, there are work incentives and trial periods that allow testing return to work without immediately losing benefits. Report any changes in income to avoid overpayments[5].
An ABLE account allows people with intellectual disability to save money without losing SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses[4].
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your child’s condition meets the criteria for disability. For some conditions, immediate payments may be available for up to 6 months[6].
You can appeal within 60 days. Seek help from local advocacy groups or legal aid if needed. The appeals process includes reconsideration, hearing, and review[1].
Yes, the Family Support Program and local councils provide resources for families. Services include respite care, home modifications, equipment, and personal assistance[3].
