If you have Multiple Sclerosis in Texas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what changed in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s strict definition of disability and enough work credits. For 2025, one work credit requires $1,810 in earnings, up from $1,640 in 2024. You generally need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began [7].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources. For 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. The resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples [1].
Both programs require that your condition prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals [1][5].
Texas does not have a state-run disability benefits program. Residents rely entirely on federal SSDI and SSI programs for monthly disability payments [2].
Texas does offer Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help pay for home and community-based services (HCBS) like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology. These waivers are limited and have waiting lists, but they are crucial for Texans with Multiple Sclerosis who need extra support [2].
Texas also has the Texas ABLE Program, which lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. To qualify, you must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident [4].
The Texas ABLE Program lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for things like medical care, housing, education, and transportation. To qualify, you must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident [4].
For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. The resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Students can exclude up to $2,350/month in earned income, capped at $9,460 annually [1]. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025) without risking your benefits [1][5].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and payments [2].
Over two-thirds of disability claims in Texas are denied after the initial review. If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or lawyer for your appeal [2].
Texas Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services are limited and have waiting lists. Apply as soon as you are eligible to avoid long delays [2].
The main benefits are SSDI (for workers with enough credits) and SSI (for those with low income). Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for home care and the Texas ABLE Program for savings. There is no state disability program in Texas [2][4].
For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) in 2025 without risking your benefits. For SSI, the federal benefit rate is $967/month for individuals, and the resource limit is $2,000. Students can exclude some earned income [1].
The Texas ABLE Program lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You must have developed your disability before age 26 and be a Texas resident [4].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records, work history, and personal info. Most claims are denied at first, but you can appeal [2][7].
Medicaid waivers pay for home and community-based services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology. They help people with Multiple Sclerosis live independently. Waivers have waiting lists and strict rules [2].
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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Yes, but there are limits. SSDI has a trial work period where you can earn over $1,160/month for nine months without losing benefits. SSI has work incentives that let you earn more without immediately losing eligibility [1].
Most claims are denied at first. You can appeal within 60 days. Consider hiring a disability lawyer or advocate for help with your appeal [2].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your reports [2].
Children with Multiple Sclerosis may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. The child must not earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) and must have marked and severe functional limitations [5].
SSDI is for workers with enough work credits. SSI is for those with low income and resources. Both programs have strict medical and work requirements. SSDI payments are usually higher than SSI [8][1].
