People with Down Syndrome in Texas may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific programs. Eligibility depends on medical documentation, income, and functional limitations. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your case.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Texas, your Down Syndrome 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:
For SSI, you must also meet strict income and resource limits. For SSDI, you need enough work credits based on your earnings history[1][2][6].
In Texas, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the federal SSA, but the Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles medical reviews. Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family’s income and resources are low. Adults with Down Syndrome who have a qualifying work history may be eligible for SSDI. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for people with Down Syndrome. These waivers help with services like personal care, therapy, and respite care. To qualify, you must meet both medical and financial criteria set by Texas Health and Human Services[1][2][4].
ABLE accounts allow people with Down Syndrome to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI/SSDI eligibility. In Texas, you can open an ABLE account through the Texas ABLE Program. Up to $100,000 in an ABLE account does not count against SSI resource limits. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free[2].
For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples. Resource limits are $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind) from work. Student income exclusions may apply for children[2][4].
You must report changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit suspension. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your local office to report changes. See our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes for more details[2][5].
Contact your local Social Security office or Texas Health and Human Services for help with applications and questions.
Consider opening a Texas ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI/SSDI eligibility.
Yes, a child with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family’s income and resources are low. The child must have a medical condition that causes marked and severe functional limitations. SSI rules consider both the child’s and family’s income and resources[4].
Down Syndrome is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, so if your medical records show the required criteria, you may qualify automatically. If not, SSA will assess your functional limitations to decide eligibility[1][6].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI[2][4].
Yes, adults with Down Syndrome who have a qualifying work history may be eligible for SSDI. They must meet the SSA’s definition of disability and have enough work credits based on their earnings[6].
Texas offers Medicaid waivers like CLASS and DBMD for people with Down Syndrome. These waivers provide services such as personal care, therapy, respite care, and supported employment. Eligibility is based on medical need and financial criteria[1][2].
Gather medical records, check eligibility, and apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid waivers, contact Texas Health and Human Services. Consider applying for an ABLE account for savings[1][2][4].
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. In Texas, up to $100,000 in an ABLE account does not affect SSI eligibility. Contributions and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free[2].
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit suspension[2][5].
Yes, work incentives allow some to earn income without immediately losing benefits. SSDI recipients can earn over $1,160 in any month during a nine-month trial work period without losing benefits[2].
Families may qualify for SSI, Medicaid waivers, special education services, and support programs through Texas Health and Human Services and the Texas Education Agency[1][2][4].
