Cystic Fibrosis Benefits in Texas: 2025 Guide

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Texas, your cystic fibrosis must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means:

• Your condition is medically documented.
• It has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• It significantly limits your ability to work or do substantial gainful activity (SGA).

The SSA uses a 5-step process to decide if you are disabled. This includes checking if you are working above the SGA limit, the severity of your condition, whether it is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, your ability to do past work, and your ability to adjust to other work. If you cannot do any of these, you may be eligible for benefits.

For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind people and $2,700 for blind people. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI.

Cystic fibrosis is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under respiratory disorders (Section 3.04). If your condition meets the criteria in the Blue Book, you may automatically qualify for benefits.

SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

[Sources: ssa.gov, trajectordisability.com, secondchancelawyer.com]

Texas follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI eligibility, so the process is the same as in other states. However, Texas has its own agencies that help with applications and appeals. The Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence and makes the final decision on disability claims.

Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide extra support for cystic fibrosis, such as home care, therapy, and equipment. These waivers are limited and may have waiting lists.

If you are denied benefits, you can appeal through the Texas DDS. The appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council.

Texas does not have a state-specific disability program, but it does offer services through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and local agencies.

[Sources: trajectordisability.com, texaslawhelp.org, hhsc.texas.gov]

• Gather medical records that show your cystic fibrosis diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
• Check if you meet the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700/month for blind in 2025).
• Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.
• If denied, you can appeal through Texas DDS.
• Consider applying for Medicaid waivers and other state programs for extra support.

• Step 1: Get your medical records. These should include your cystic fibrosis diagnosis, treatment history, and how your condition limits your ability to work or do daily activities.
• Step 2: Check your income and resources. If you earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind), you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI.
• Step 3: Apply for SSDI or SSI. You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide personal information, work history, and medical records.
• Step 4: Wait for a decision. Texas DDS will review your application and may ask for more information.
• Step 5: If denied, you can appeal. The appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council.
• Step 6: If approved, you will start receiving benefits. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers and other state programs.
• Step 7: Report any changes in your income, resources, or medical condition to avoid overpayments.

[Sources: ssa.gov, trajectordisability.com, texaslawhelp.org]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. The maximum benefit in 2025 is $4,018 per month.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with limited income and resources. The federal benefit rate in 2025 is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
• Medicaid: Health coverage for people with disabilities. You may qualify for Medicaid if you get SSI or have low income.
• Medicare: Health coverage for people who get SSDI after 24 months.
• Work Incentives: Programs that allow you to work and earn income while keeping benefits.

[Sources: ssa.gov, secondchancelawyer.com]

Texas offers several programs for people with cystic fibrosis and other disabilities:

• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): These waivers provide home and community-based services, such as personal care, therapy, and equipment. There may be waiting lists.
• Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC): HHSC helps with Medicaid applications and other benefits.
• Texas Workforce Commission (TWC): TWC offers vocational rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities.
• Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS): DARS provides services for people with disabilities, including cystic fibrosis.
• Local Agencies: Many cities and counties have agencies that offer support, such as transportation, housing, and counseling.

[Sources: hhsc.texas.gov, texaslawhelp.org, trajectordisability.com]

ABLE accounts allow people with cystic fibrosis to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. In Texas, you can open an ABLE account through the Texas ABLE program.

[Sources: ssa.gov, texaslawhelp.org]

• SSDI: No strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700/month for blind in 2025).
• SSI: The federal benefit rate is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples in 2025. The resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
• Medicaid: Income and resource limits vary by program.

[Sources: ssa.gov, secondchancelawyer.com]

You must report any changes in your income, resources, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.

[Sources: ssa.gov, texaslawhelp.org]

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For disability benefits questions and applications.
• Texas Health and Human Services Commission
  Phone: 1-877-541-7905

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For Medicaid, waivers, and other state benefits.

• Can cystic fibrosis qualify for disability benefits in Texas?

  Yes, cystic fibrosis can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets Social Security’s disability criteria. Your condition must be medically documented, last at least 12 months, and limit your ability to work.

• How do I apply for disability benefits for cystic fibrosis in Texas?

  You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and other information about your condition and work history.

• What is the SGA limit for cystic fibrosis benefits in Texas?

  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 SSDI or SSI.

• Can I work while getting disability benefits for cystic fibrosis?

  Yes, you can work during a trial work period without losing benefits. In 2025, you can earn over $1,160 in any month during a nine-month trial work period.

• What is the difference between SSI and SSDI for cystic fibrosis in Texas?

  SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs offer monthly payments for people with cystic fibrosis.

• How long does it take to get disability benefits for cystic fibrosis in Texas?

  The process can take several months. Texas DDS reviews your application and may ask for more information. If denied, you can appeal, which may take longer.