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Tennessee • Physical/Mobility
People with Muscular Dystrophy in Tennessee may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and Family Support. These benefits help cover medical care, daily living, and employment support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, you must have a severe medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid 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 low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. Muscular Dystrophy is listed as a qualifying condition by the Social Security Administration, so it meets the medical criteria for both programs[1][2][8].
In Tennessee, people with Muscular Dystrophy can also access state programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities by providing services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. The program is funded by state dollars and is not a substitute for Medicaid or other federal programs. Adults with Muscular Dystrophy may also qualify for Medicaid waivers, such as the Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices program, which supports employment and independent living. Children under 18 with Muscular Dystrophy 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][9].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Tennessee, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free[4].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $967 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,550 per month (non-blind) or $2,590 per month (blind) from substantial work. State programs like Family Support have their own income and asset limits, which vary by program[2][5].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn more than the limit or if your financial situation changes. Reporting changes promptly helps avoid penalties and ensures you get the right amount of benefits[5].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Muscular Dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that cause progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. It can affect mobility, breathing, and daily activities. The Social Security Administration recognizes it as a qualifying disability for benefits[2][6].
SSI is for people with low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with enough work credits from jobs where they paid Social Security taxes. Both require a severe medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months[1][2][8].
You need medical records, proof of income, assets, and work history. For children, you may also need school records and a doctor’s note. Keep copies of all documents for your records[6][7].
The process can take 6 to 8 months or longer. Some conditions, like Muscular Dystrophy, may qualify for immediate payments while your application is reviewed. Be patient and follow up regularly[6].
Yes, there are work incentives and trial work periods that let you test your ability to work without losing benefits. If you earn more than the limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped[1][5].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Medicaid waivers like ECF Choices, and the Katie Beckett program for children. These programs provide services like respite care, home modifications, and help with medical costs[3][4][9].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The maximum SSDI payment is $4,018 per month. Actual amounts depend on your income, resources, and work history[2][5].
Yes, children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for SSI, Medicaid waivers, or the Katie Beckett program. These programs help with medical care and daily living expenses[4][6].
The Family Support Program is a state-funded program that helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities. It provides services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. The current limit is $6,000 per individual per year[3].
You must report changes to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if your income or resources change. Reporting changes promptly helps avoid penalties and ensures you get the right amount of benefits[5].
