If you are hard of hearing in Texas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, Medicaid, and state programs such as Texas ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on your income, work history, and how your hearing loss affects your daily life and ability to work.
Sources: SSA Disability Qualification, SSA SSI for Children
Sources: Texas Disability Determination Services, Texas ABLE Program, Texas Medicaid Waivers (state-specific information is limited; start here for more details)
Sources: SSA Apply for Benefits, Texas ABLE Program
Sources: SSA Disability Application, Texas ABLE Program, Texas Medicaid Waivers
Sources: SSA Disability Programs, Medicaid
Sources: Texas ABLE Program, Texas Medicaid Waivers, Texas Vocational Rehabilitation
Sources: Texas ABLE Program
Sources: SSA SSI Limits, Texas ABLE Program
Sources: SSA Overpayments
Contact Texas Vocational Rehabilitation Services for free help with your disability application and job training.
Yes, if your hearing loss is severe enough to prevent you from working and meets the SSA’s definition of disability, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must provide medical evidence of your hearing loss and how it affects your daily life.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this may affect your eligibility for disability benefits.
Yes, children with hearing loss may qualify for SSI if their family’s income and resources are low and their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations. The child must not be working or earning more than $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind).
The Texas ABLE Program is a savings account for Texans with disabilities who became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses, including hearing aids and communication devices, without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
Medicaid waivers in Texas help pay for services not covered by regular Medicaid, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive technology. These programs are for people with disabilities who meet income and resource limits.
You can apply online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records, personal information, and work history. Texas Vocational Rehabilitation can also help with the application process.
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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SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. SSDI is for disabled workers who have paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments, but eligibility requirements are different.
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 without losing benefits. After the trial period, earning above the SGA limit may affect your benefits.
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may want to get help from a disability advocate or attorney. You can also request a reconsideration or a hearing before an administrative law judge.
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, work, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all payments and changes to help avoid overpayments.
