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Texas • Mental Health
If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Texas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI. These programs help cover living costs if your condition prevents you from working. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for extra support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To get disability benefits for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Texas, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your OCD must be medically documented, expected to last at least 12 months, and severely limit your ability to work or do daily activities. The SSA uses a 5-step process to decide if you qualify:
If your OCD meets these criteria, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].
Texas does not have a separate state disability program for adults with OCD. Instead, residents rely on federal programs like SSI and SSDI. However, Texas offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help with home and community-based services. These waivers are not specific to OCD but can be used by anyone who qualifies. Texas also allows ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. To get these, you must first qualify for SSI or SSDI[1][2][4][5].
For help, contact a disability attorney or advocate in Texas[4][6].
Check Eligibility: Make sure your OCD is severe and expected to last at least 12 months. You must also meet income and work history rules for SSI or SSDI.
Gather Documents: Collect medical records, doctor’s notes, and proof of income and work history. For OCD, include mental health evaluations and treatment records.
Start Your Application: You can apply online at ssa.gov, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local SSA office. The online option lets you save and return later.
Wait for a Decision: Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your case. This can take 3–6 months.
Respond to Requests: DDS may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam.
Appeal if Denied: If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Most people get approved after an appeal.
Get Help: Consider working with a disability attorney. They can improve your chances of approval and help with appeals[4][6][7].
The main federal programs for people with OCD in Texas are:
These programs are run by the SSA and are the same in every state[2][3][5][7].
Texas does not have a state-run disability cash benefit program for adults. Instead, Texas offers:
For more details, visit the Texas Health and Human Services website or contact a local disability advocate[1][2][4].
Texas allows ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including OCD. These accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for housing, education, and other disability-related expenses. To open an ABLE account, you must first qualify for SSI or SSDI. Learn more about Texas ABLE accounts and how to apply[4].
For SSI in Texas, your monthly income must be below $1,620 for individuals and $2,700 for couples. Your countable resources (like savings) cannot exceed $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. SSDI has no income limit, but you must have enough work credits. The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind people and $2,700/month for blind people[2][4][5].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA’s online portal or call to report changes. For more details, see the SSA’s guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[2][4].
Contact a disability attorney or advocate in Texas. They can help you gather documents, fill out forms, and appeal if needed. Many offer free consultations.
Yes, if your OCD is severe and prevents you from working, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet federal medical and income criteria. Texas does not have a separate state disability program for adults.
You need medical records from doctors or therapists showing your OCD diagnosis, treatment, and how it affects your ability to work. Include mental health evaluations and treatment history.
The process usually takes 3–6 months. If your claim is denied, appeals can take longer. Most people get approved after an appeal.
You can earn up to $1,620/month (non-blind) without losing benefits. SSDI has a trial work period where you can earn more for 9 months. SSI has work incentives that let you keep some benefits.
SSI is for people with low income and limited resources. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require a severe disability that prevents work.
Texas does not have a state-run cash benefit program for adults with OCD. Residents rely on federal SSI and SSDI, plus Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for extra support.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities live in the community. They can pay for home care, therapy, and other services. To qualify, you must first get SSI or SSDI.
If you get SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in Texas. Medicaid covers health care, therapy, and other services for people with disabilities.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. Gather medical records and work history before applying. Consider working with a disability attorney for help.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Most people get approved after an appeal. Consider working with a disability attorney for help.
