People with intellectual disability in Texas can access federal benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state-specific Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet medical criteria. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. For children, the rules are slightly different and may include family income and resources.
For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. The federal SSI payment is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Resource limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Work credits for SSDI now require $1,810 in earnings per credit, up to four per year.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2025 COLA and SGA updates]
Texas does not offer a state-funded cash benefit for adults with intellectual disability. All cash benefits come from federal programs like SSI and SSDI. However, Texas does provide Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services, which are crucial for people with intellectual disability. These waivers help cover costs for home and community-based services, such as personal care, respite care, and supported employment.
Eligibility for Medicaid waivers in Texas is based on functional need, not just income. You must meet the state’s definition of intellectual disability and have a need for long-term care. The application process for waivers can be complex and often involves waiting lists. It is important to apply early and provide thorough documentation of your disability and care needs.
[Source: Texas Health and Human Services, Medicaid Waivers]
[Source: SSA.gov, Texas Health and Human Services]
[Source: SSA.gov, Medicare.gov, Medicaid.gov]
[Source: Texas Health and Human Services, Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Education Agency]
ABLE accounts allow Texans with intellectual disability to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and the first $100,000 is not counted against SSI resource limits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support.
[Source: SSA.gov, ABLE National Resource Center]
For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Resource limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind individuals) without risking your benefits.
[Source: SSA.gov]
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security and Medicaid. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
[Source: SSA.gov, Texas Health and Human Services]
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a qualifying disability. SSI is needs-based, SSDI is work-based.
Contact Texas Health and Human Services to request an application for Medicaid waivers. You will need to provide medical records and complete a functional assessment. Waivers provide home and community-based services.
Yes, you can work, but there are limits. For SSI, you can earn up to $967/month without losing benefits. For SSDI, you can earn up to $1,620/month during a trial work period without losing benefits.
The federal SSI payment is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Resource limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. These limits may be higher for some families.
Gather medical records and proof of income, review eligibility, and apply online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office. For Medicaid waivers, contact Texas Health and Human Services.
An ABLE account lets Texans with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
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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If you get an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. It is important to report any changes in income or living situation to avoid overpayments.
Yes, the Texas Education Agency provides special education services for children with intellectual disability, including individualized education plans and support services.
Yes, you may be eligible for both SSI and SSDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. SSI is needs-based, SSDI is work-based.
The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your benefits.
