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Texas • Chronic Illness
People with cancer in Texas may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for care and support. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Texas, your cancer must:
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to decide eligibility:
If you cannot do any of these, you may qualify for benefits[1][2][5][6].
Texas follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but also offers state-specific programs for people with cancer. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) runs Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with care at home or in the community. These waivers may cover things like nursing, therapy, and personal care for people with cancer who meet income and medical criteria.
Texas also has programs for transportation, food, and counseling for people with cancer. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) offers cancer screening and support services, especially for low-income residents[1][2].
ABLE accounts let people with cancer save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Texas, you can open an ABLE account through the Texas ABLE Program. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and the first $100,000 is not counted for SSI eligibility. ABLE accounts can be used for things like medical care, housing, and education[7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For SSI, report changes like new income, moving, or getting married. For SSDI, report changes like returning to work or earning more than the SGA limit. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes[2][6].
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. For Medicaid and waivers, call 2-1-1 or visit YourTexasBenefits.com.
Contact the Texas Department of State Health Services for cancer screening, counseling, and support services.
Yes, cancer can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets SSA criteria. Your cancer must be medically documented, last at least 12 months, and significantly limit your ability to work or do daily activities. Some cancers are automatically approved if they are on the SSA’s Blue Book list[1][2][5][6].
SSI is for people with cancer who have low income and limited resources. SSDI is for people with cancer who have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs offer monthly payments, but eligibility and payment amounts differ[1][2][7].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history. For Medicaid, apply through YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling 2-1-1[1][2][5][6].
Medicaid waivers in Texas help people with cancer get home and community-based care, like nursing, therapy, and personal care. These waivers are for people who meet income and medical criteria and can help avoid nursing home placement[1][2].
Yes, you can work during a trial work period without losing benefits. In 2025, SSDI recipients can earn over $1,160 in any month during a nine-month trial work period. SSI recipients can also earn more without immediately losing eligibility[2][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
An ABLE account lets people with cancer save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and the first $100,000 is not counted for SSI eligibility. ABLE accounts can be used for medical care, housing, and education[7].
In 2025, the federal SSI rate is $967/month for individuals, $1,450/month for couples. The maximum SSDI payment is $4,018/month. Payment amounts depend on your income, work history, and family situation[2][3][6].
You must report changes in income to Social Security or Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes[2][6].
Yes, children with cancer may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and income criteria. Children may also get benefits as a dependent on a parent’s Social Security record if the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[4][6].
Texas offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based care, cancer screening and counseling through DSHS, and vocational rehab through TWC. Local cancer organizations also offer support and resources[1][2].
