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Texas • Chronic Illness
If you have heart disease in Texas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI. These programs help cover living costs if your condition prevents you from working. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for extra support.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with heart disease, your condition must:
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to decide eligibility, including checking if your heart disease is listed in the Blue Book or if it severely limits your function [1].
SSDI requires a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history [2].
Texas follows federal rules for SSDI and SSI eligibility. If your heart disease meets SSA criteria, you can apply through the SSA. Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence and makes the final decision.
Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with heart disease, to access home and community-based services. These waivers help with care not covered by regular Medicaid [1].
State agencies like Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) can help connect you to local resources and support programs for chronic illness [1].
Texas ABLE accounts let people with heart disease save money for disability-related expenses. You can save up to $100,000 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for medical care, housing, education, and more. Learn more at the Texas ABLE website [1].
You must report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you earn more than SGA, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. Texas offers work incentives, like a trial work period, so you can test employment without losing benefits [2].
Texas legal aid groups offer free help with disability applications and appeals. Contact your local legal aid office for support.
You can test employment during a trial work period without losing benefits. Learn more about work incentives for SSDI and SSI recipients.
Yes, if your heart disease is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration uses strict medical criteria to decide eligibility [1].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning more may affect your benefits [2].
Gather medical records, check SGA limits, and apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Texas DDS will review your case [1].
Medicaid waivers help people with heart disease get home and community-based services, like personal care or therapy, not covered by regular Medicaid [1].
Yes, but you cannot earn more than SGA limits. Texas offers work incentives, like a trial work period, so you can test employment without losing benefits [2].
An ABLE account lets people with heart disease save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Texas offers state-specific ABLE accounts [1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the latest rules and eligibility.
The process can take several months. Texas DDS reviews medical evidence and may ask for more info. Appeals can take longer [1].
You can appeal within 60 days. Texas legal aid groups can help with the appeal process and provide free advice [1].
You don't need a lawyer, but legal aid groups can help with complex cases or appeals. Many services are free for low-income applicants [1].
Yes, children with severe heart disease may qualify for SSI if family income and resources are low. The child must have marked and severe functional limitations [4].
