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Tennessee • Physical/Mobility
Tennessee residents with mobility impairments can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for home support, Medicaid waivers, and financial help. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability starts. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources, regardless of work history. The Social Security Administration defines substantial work as earning more than $1,550 per month in 2025 (or $2,590 if blind). If your mobility impairment keeps you from earning above this, you may qualify for benefits[1][2][9].
In Tennessee, eligibility for state disability programs often depends on having a severe disability and meeting income or family needs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home, offering up to $6,000 per person for services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. Adults with mobility impairments may also qualify for Medicaid waivers, such as the Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices program, which supports independent living and employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Children with complex needs may qualify for the Katie Beckett program if they don’t meet regular TennCare rules. State programs may have waiting lists and require proof of disability severity and financial need[3][4][5][7].
Tennessee residents with mobility impairments can open an ABLE account to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Tennessee[internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. To qualify, your income and resources must be below federal limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,550 per month from work (SGA limit). State programs like Family Support may have their own income rules[2][1].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you work too much or don’t report changes. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact your local Family Support Council or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for help with your application.
You can test work without losing benefits. Ask about trial work periods and work incentives when you apply.
Mobility impairments that prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months qualify. This includes conditions like paralysis, severe arthritis, or amputation. The Social Security Administration reviews medical records to decide if your condition meets their rules[2][9].
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The maximum SSDI payment is $4,018 per month. Most people get less, based on income and work history[2].
Yes, you can try working part-time. Social Security has work incentives and a trial work period. If you earn more than $1,550 per month, you may lose benefits, but short unsuccessful work attempts may not count[1][2].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Medicaid waivers like ECF Choices, and the Katie Beckett program for children. These programs help with home care, equipment, and medical needs[3][4][5].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For state programs, contact your local Family Support Council or TennCare. You will need medical records and proof of income[1][4].
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing. Many claims are approved on appeal[1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check official sources for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, children with severe mobility impairments may qualify for SSI or the Katie Beckett program. The state may make immediate SSI payments for some conditions while the claim is reviewed[6][4].
Yes, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers affordable housing programs for low-income residents with disabilities. You may also qualify for home modifications through the Family Support Program[5][3].
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities stay together at home. It offers up to $6,000 per person for services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance[3][4].
For SSI, yes, you must have low income and few resources. For SSDI, you need enough work credits, not low income. State programs may have their own income rules[2][1].
