If you are blind in Texas, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical costs, living expenses, and disability-related needs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits due to blindness, your condition must be medically documented and expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to decide eligibility:
SSDI requires work credits; SSI is for those with limited income and resources[1][2][7].
Texas residents with blindness have access to the same federal programs as other states, but also benefit from state-specific supports. The Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles medical reviews for SSDI and SSI. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with daily living needs[1][2].
Texas residents can open a Texas ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. To qualify, you must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident[4].
Texas does not have a separate state disability program for blindness, but state agencies can help with vocational rehabilitation and other supports[4].
The Texas ABLE Program lets blind Texans save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. To qualify, you must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident[4].
If your income, resources, or health changes, you must report it to SSA and Texas agencies. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes[1][2].
Contact your local Social Security office or Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services for help with your application.
In 2025, blind individuals in Texas can earn up to $2,700 per month without losing SSDI or SSI benefits. This is called the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit[2][5].
Yes, blind Texans can work and earn up to $2,700 per month in 2025 without losing benefits. There are also work incentives that let you test your ability to work without losing benefits[2].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and work or income records[1][2].
The Texas ABLE account lets blind Texans save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident[4].
Blind Texans who get SSI usually qualify for Medicaid, but you must apply separately. Medicaid can help pay for medical care and home and community-based services[2].
In 2025, the average SSDI payment for blind Texans is $1,580 per month, with a maximum of $4,018. Payments depend on your work history[2][8].
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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Yes, if you meet the work credit requirements for SSDI and the income/resource limits for SSI, you can get both. This is called concurrent benefits[2].
The process can take 3–6 months, but some cases are decided faster. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days[1][2].
You need a medical diagnosis from a licensed doctor, including vision tests and records showing your blindness meets SSA criteria[1][2].
Yes, work incentives let blind Texans earn more without losing benefits. For example, the Student Earned Income Exclusion lets students exclude up to $2,350/month in earned income[2].
