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Tennessee • Mental Health
If you have Panic Disorder in Tennessee, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and Family Support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, your Panic Disorder must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if your condition is disabling. You must show that your Panic Disorder causes significant limitations in daily activities, social functioning, or concentration. You also cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (2025) from work, or $2,700 if you are blind. If you meet these criteria, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) [1].
In Tennessee, people with Panic Disorder may also qualify for state programs that provide extra support. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults who have severe disabilities, including mental health conditions. This program can pay for respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other needs. The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with complex medical needs, including Panic Disorder, who do not qualify for TennCare due to family income. Tennessee also offers Medicaid waivers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which may include some mental health conditions. Check with local agencies to see if you qualify for these programs [2][3][4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and state agencies. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Yes, Panic Disorder can qualify for disability if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet SSA criteria for disability [1][5].
SSI is for people with low income and few resources. SSDI is for those who have paid Social Security taxes through work. Both provide monthly payments for people with disabilities [1][5].
Gather medical records, decide if you need SSI or SSDI, and apply online at SSA.gov or at your local Social Security office. For state programs, contact the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities or local Family Support offices [1][2][3].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Katie Beckett program, Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices, and TennCare. These programs provide services, financial help, and health coverage for people with disabilities [2][3][4].
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The maximum SSDI payment is $4,018 per month. The Family Support Program provides up to $6,000 per individual per year [1][2].
Yes, children with Panic Disorder may qualify for SSI or the Katie Beckett program if they meet the criteria. These programs provide financial help and services for children with disabilities [3][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and state agencies to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
You can work, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity limit ($1,620 per month in 2025). There are work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you try to work [internal_link: SSI & SSDI Work Incentives].
You need medical records from your doctor showing your Panic Disorder diagnosis and how it affects your daily life and ability to work. The SSA may ask for more exams or information [6].
The SSA may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the criteria for disability. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments while your application is reviewed [6].
