People with short stature in Tennessee may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI if their condition prevents them from working for at least 12 months. Tennessee also offers state programs for families and individuals with severe disabilities, including Medicaid waivers and support services.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security taxes. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. The number of credits needed depends on your age when you become disabled. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your earnings are below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025. If your short stature severely limits your ability to work, you may qualify for these benefits [1].
In Tennessee, people with short stature may qualify for state programs if their condition is considered severe. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities by providing respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other supports. The program is not a substitute for Medicaid waivers or other comprehensive services. Adults with severe disabilities who live with their families may also be eligible. The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to family income. These programs can help cover medical costs and support services not covered by private insurance. State-specific eligibility depends on the severity of the disability and family resources [3][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account through the state program. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply at the official ABLE website [5].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for an individual. The income limit is based on countable income, which includes wages, Social Security benefits, and other sources. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Family Support Program benefits are capped at $6,000 per individual with a severe disability [2][3].
You must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes online at SSA.gov or by calling your local Social Security office. For state programs, report changes to your local Family Support Council or TennCare. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes at the official guide [5].
Contact your local Family Support Council or TennCare for help with applications. Disability advocates can also assist with the process.
Yes, if short stature severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration reviews medical evidence to determine eligibility. State programs may also help if your condition is severe.
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both programs require that your earnings are below the SGA limit.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, visit a local Social Security office, or call 1-800-772-1213. For state programs, contact your local Family Support Council or TennCare. Gather medical records and work history before applying.
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program for families with children or adults with severe disabilities. The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs. Both programs provide support services and help with medical costs.
Yes, children with short stature may qualify for SSI if their condition prevents them from working for at least 12 months. The Katie Beckett program helps children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to family income.
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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The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities by providing respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other supports. It is not a substitute for Medicaid waivers or other comprehensive services.
For SSI, your countable income must be below the limit, which is $967 per month in 2025. For SSDI, your earnings must be below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives let you test returning to work without losing benefits.
The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to family income. It helps pay for medical care not covered by private insurance and provides support services.
Yes, work incentives let you test returning to work without losing benefits. If your earnings are below the SGA limit, you can keep your benefits. Report any changes in income or work to avoid overpayments.
Report any changes in income, work, or medical status to the Social Security Administration or your local Family Support Council. Overpayments can happen if you do not report changes, and you may have to pay back the excess.
