People with Cerebral Palsy in Texas can get help through federal programs like SSI and SSDI, plus state services such as Medicaid waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Cerebral Palsy, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must:
For SSDI, you also need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. The SSA uses a 5-step process to decide if you qualify, including checking if your condition is listed in their Blue Book or if you can do past or other work [1].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind people and $2,700/month for blind people. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for benefits [2].
Texas follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI eligibility, so the process is the same as in other states. However, Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles the medical review for disability claims. For children with Cerebral Palsy, eligibility for SSI depends on both the child’s and family’s income and resources. If your child lives at home, the SSA will look at your household’s finances when deciding if your child qualifies [4].
Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including Cerebral Palsy. These waivers can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services not covered by regular Medicaid. To get a waiver, you must meet both medical and financial rules set by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission [1].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money 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 [7].
If you get too much money from SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, work, or living situation to the SSA right away to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person [5].
Contact Texas Health and Human Services or a local disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Yes, a child with Cerebral Palsy can get SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income and resources are low enough. The SSA will review medical records and household finances [4].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind people and $2,700 per month for blind people. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for disability benefits [2].
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. You will need to meet medical and financial rules. The CLASS and HCS waivers are common for people with Cerebral Palsy [1].
Yes, adults with Cerebral Palsy can get SSDI if they have enough work credits and meet the SSA’s disability rules. The condition must be severe and expected to last at least 12 months [5].
SSI is for people with low income and resources, while SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs can help people with Cerebral Palsy, but the rules and payment amounts are different [7].
Yes, you can work and earn some income without losing benefits. In 2025, SSDI recipients can earn over $1,160 in any month during a nine-month trial work period without losing benefits [2].
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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You need medical records that show your Cerebral Palsy diagnosis, how it affects your daily life, and any treatments you have had. The SSA will use these records to decide if you qualify for benefits [1].
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision on a disability claim in Texas. If more information is needed, it may take longer. You can check the status of your claim online or by phone [1].
Yes, you may be able to get help with housing through Medicaid waivers or other programs. Free or reduced-cost housing from friends or family may affect your SSI payments unless you pay at least $342.33/month in rent [2].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal after you get a denial letter. You can appeal online, by phone, or in person [5].
