People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Texas may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Texans living with ALS.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS, your condition must:
ALS is considered a “compassionate allowance” by the Social Security Administration (SSA), meaning it is fast-tracked for approval. Most people with ALS meet the criteria for disability and are approved quickly if they have a confirmed diagnosis [1].
The SSA uses a 5-step process to decide eligibility:
If you cannot do any of these, you are eligible for benefits [1].
In Texas, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the federal SSA, but the Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles the medical review. ALS is recognized as a qualifying condition for both SSDI and SSI in Texas.
Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with ALS who need home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers help pay for personal care, therapy, and other supports. Eligibility for waivers depends on income, assets, and medical need. You must be a Texas resident and meet the state’s criteria for disability and financial need [2].
Texas ABLE accounts are available for Texans with disabilities who developed their condition before age 26. These accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [4].
The Texas ABLE Program lets Texans with disabilities save for disability-related expenses. You must be a Texas resident and have developed your disability before age 26. Funds can be used for health, independence, and quality of life expenses. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the account balance is under $100,000 [4].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes [2].
ALS is a “compassionate allowance” for Social Security disability. Most people with ALS are approved quickly if they have a confirmed diagnosis.
Texas Medicaid waivers can help pay for home and community-based services for people with ALS. Contact Texas Health and Human Services for details.
Yes, ALS is a fast-track condition for Social Security disability. Most people with a confirmed ALS diagnosis are approved quickly if they meet the basic criteria [1].
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind) without losing SSDI or SSI benefits. Earning more may affect your eligibility [2].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs offer monthly payments for people with ALS [8].
Yes, people with ALS in Texas may qualify for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical need [2].
A Texas ABLE account is a savings account for Texans with disabilities who developed their condition before age 26. It helps save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [4].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. You’ll need medical records and work history. For Medicaid waivers, contact Texas Health and Human Services [7].
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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Work incentives let you earn some income without losing benefits. SSDI has a trial work period, and SSI has a student income exclusion and other rules to help you work [2].
ALS is fast-tracked, so most people get a decision within a few weeks to a few months after applying, if they have a confirmed diagnosis [1].
Yes, children with ALS may qualify for SSI if they meet the disability and income requirements. The child must not be working or earning more than $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind) [5].
You must report changes in income to the SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits [2].
