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Texas • Mental Health
Texans with Bipolar Disorder may qualify for federal programs like SSI, SSDI, and Medicare, plus state-specific options like Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical criteria, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, income limits, and where to get help in Texas.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Bipolar Disorder, your condition must be medically documented, expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and severely limit your ability to work[1][6]. For SSDI, you must also have enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security[6][7]. SSI is needs-based, so income and resources must fall below strict limits (in 2025: $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples; resources under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples)[2]. If you are working, you generally cannot earn above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025)[2]. The Social Security Administration uses a 5-step evaluation process to determine if you meet their strict definition of disability[1].
Texas uses the same federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but your application is processed by Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS)[1]. For Medicaid, Texas offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, which can provide extra support for people with serious mental health conditions, including Bipolar Disorder, but specific eligibility depends on your diagnosis, level of need, and income. The Texas ABLE Program lets residents who became disabled before age 26 save money in a tax-advantaged account for disability-related expenses, without affecting SSI resource limits[4]. Always check with Texas Health and Human Services for the latest on Medicaid waivers and state-funded programs.
To apply for SSI/SSDI in Texas: Gather your medical records, work history, and personal identification. Complete the online application at ssa.gov, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit your local Social Security office[6]. For Texas Medicaid waivers, contact your Local Mental Health Authority. For Texas ABLE accounts, visit texasable.org to enroll[4].
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility — Review the federal requirements for SSI and SSDI, including medical criteria and income/resource limits[1][2]. Step 2: Gather Documentation — Collect medical records, doctor’s notes, treatment history, work history, tax returns, and personal identification. Step 3: Start Your Application — Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at a Social Security office[6]. Step 4: Complete Forms and Interviews — Fill out all required forms. You may need to attend a medical exam or interview. Step 5: Track Your Application — Check your status online or by phone. Respond quickly to any requests for more information. Step 6: Appeal if Denied — If denied, you can appeal. Many applicants are approved on appeal. For Texas Medicaid Waivers: Contact your Local Mental Health Authority to apply for HCBS waivers. For Texas ABLE: Enroll online at texasable.org, choose your investment options, and start saving for qualified disability expenses[4].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash benefits for low-income individuals with disabilities, including Bipolar Disorder, who meet strict income and resource limits. Payments are $967/month for individuals in 2025[2]. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For those with a work history who have paid into Social Security. Maximum monthly benefit is $4,018 in 2025[8]. Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI eligibility. SSI & SSDI Work Incentives: Programs like the Trial Work Period let you test working without losing benefits right away[2].
Texas Medicaid: Provides health coverage for low-income Texans, including those with Bipolar Disorder. Medicaid waivers (HCBS) offer extra services like case management, counseling, and supported employment. Texas ABLE Program: A savings account for people whose disability began before age 26. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses without affecting SSI resource limits[4]. State-Funded Mental Health Services: Local Mental Health Authorities provide counseling, crisis services, and case management. Contact your local authority for details. State-specific information is limited; start here: Texas Health and Human Services and the Texas ABLE Program.
The Texas ABLE Program lets Texans with disabilities (onset before age 26) save and invest money without affecting SSI resource limits. Funds can pay for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, transportation, and healthcare. You can choose from several investment options, including a bank savings account[4]. The U.S. Bank Focus Card is available for Texas ABLE accounts for easy spending. Learn more at texasable.org.
SSI: In 2025, individuals cannot earn more than $967/month ($1,450 for couples) and must have resources under $2,000 ($3,000 for couples)[2]. SSDI: No income limit to qualify, but you cannot engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)—$1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025[2]. Student Income Exclusion: SSI recipients who are students can exclude up to $2,350/month in earned income, up to $9,460/year[2].
Always report changes in your income, living situation, or health to the Social Security Administration and Texas Health and Human Services to avoid overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Use the SSA’s my Social Security account to report changes online. For help, see our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes[internal_links].
Texas Law Help offers free legal assistance for disability applications. Many applicants are denied at first but approved on appeal—don’t give up. Local mental health authorities can help you apply for Medicaid waivers and connect you with support services.
You can test work without losing benefits right away. The SSDI Trial Work Period lets you earn over $1,160/month for 9 months without losing benefits. SSI also allows some income exclusions, especially for students[2].
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). SSI also has strict income and resource limits. Work incentive programs let you test working without losing benefits right away[2].
You need detailed medical records showing your diagnosis, treatment history, and how your symptoms limit your ability to work. Doctor’s notes, hospital records, and mental health treatment records are crucial[1][6].
It often takes 3–5 months to get a decision on SSI/SSDI. If denied, appeals can take much longer. You can check your status online at ssa.gov[6].
ABLE accounts let Texans with disabilities (onset before age 26) save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI resource limits. You can invest and spend on qualified expenses like housing, education, and healthcare[4].
Bipolar Disorder is not listed by name, but mental health conditions with similar symptoms are included. Your records must show marked limitations in daily activities, social functioning, and concentration[1].
In Texas, most SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid. If you are denied, contact Texas Health and Human Services for help[internal_links].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
You have the right to appeal. Many applicants are approved after appealing. Get help from a disability advocate or lawyer, and submit any new medical evidence[6].
HCBS waivers can provide extra services like case management, counseling, and supported employment. Eligibility depends on your diagnosis, level of need, and income[internal_links].
SSI and SSDI cases are reviewed periodically. If your condition improves or you return to work, you must report it. Reviews may happen every 1–7 years, depending on your case[6].
Contact your local Social Security office, Texas Health and Human Services, or a disability advocacy group. Free legal help may be available through Texas Law Help[6][internal_links].
