If you have rheumatoid arthritis and live in Tennessee, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for health, housing, and family support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition like rheumatoid arthritis that stops you from working for at least 12 months. You also 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[1].
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must last at least 12 months[2]. Both programs require that your earnings do not exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 for non-blind individuals[5].
Rheumatoid arthritis is listed in the Social Security Blue Book under immune system disorders. If your symptoms match the listing, you may qualify faster. If not, you can still qualify if your condition severely limits your ability to work[2].
In Tennessee, people with rheumatoid arthritis may also qualify for state programs that help with health, housing, and family support. The Family Support Program offers up to $6,000 per year for families with a member who has a severe disability, including adults and children[3].
Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) covers medical care for low-income people with disabilities, including those with rheumatoid arthritis[4]. You may also qualify for SNAP (food stamps) and housing assistance if your income is low[4].
State programs are not a substitute for federal disability benefits but can help fill gaps in care and support. Eligibility for state programs depends on income, disability severity, and other factors[3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education[internal_link_able_accounts].
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 $1,620 per month from work (SGA limit)[2][5]. State programs like SNAP and TennCare have their own income limits based on household size and disability status[4].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to the Social Security Administration and state agencies. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back[internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].
Contact your local Social Security office or a Tennessee disability advocacy group for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets the Social Security Administration’s medical criteria[2].
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is $4,018 per month. The maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. Amounts depend on your work history and income[2].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, TennCare (Medicaid), SNAP, housing assistance, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services[3][4].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. You’ll need medical records and work history. You can also apply for state programs at the same time[1][3][4].
No, you must not be able to work due to your disability. If you earn more than $1,620 per month, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI[5].
Yes, TennCare (Medicaid) covers medical care for low-income people with disabilities. You may also qualify for Medicare after getting SSDI[4][5].
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. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing[1].
Yes, there are work incentives and trial work periods that let you test your ability to work without losing benefits right away[1].
It can take 6 to 8 months to get a decision. Some conditions get faster approval, but rheumatoid arthritis usually takes the full review time[6].
Yes, Tennessee offers housing assistance programs for low-income people with disabilities, including help with rent and home modifications[4].
