People with Parkinson’s Disease in Texas may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers. Eligibility depends on medical documentation, work history, and financial need. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your case.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Texas, your Parkinson’s Disease must:
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to decide if you are disabled:
If you meet these steps, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources.
Sources: SSA.gov, Trajector Disability
In Texas, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify for disability benefits. Parkinson’s Disease is recognized as a qualifying condition if it meets SSA criteria.
Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need long-term care. These waivers can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services not covered by regular Medicaid.
If you are approved for SSI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid in Texas. SSDI recipients can get Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits.
Texas does not have a separate state disability program, so most people rely on federal SSDI and SSI.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers in Texas
Sources: Trajector Disability, Texas Medicaid [date_accessed: 2025-11-06]
Collect Documents: Get medical records, doctor’s notes, and a list of medications for Parkinson’s Disease. Also gather work history and pay stubs.
Start Application: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office.
Complete Forms: Fill out the Disability Report and Adult Function Report. Be honest and detailed about how Parkinson’s Disease affects your daily life.
Submit Application: Send all documents to the SSA. You may be asked for more information.
Wait for Review: Texas DDS will review your case. This can take several months.
Get Decision: You will receive a letter in the mail. If approved, you will start getting benefits. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
Appeal if Needed: If denied, you can request a reconsideration, a hearing, or review by the Appeals Council.
Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
Sources: SSA.gov, Trajector Disability
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
Texas offers several programs to help people with Parkinson’s Disease:
These programs can help with long-term care, therapy, and daily living needs.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers in Texas
Sources: Texas Medicaid, Texas Workforce Commission [date_accessed: 2025-11-06]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Texas, you can open an ABLE account through the Texas ABLE Program. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and the total balance can be up to $500,000. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI in 2025:
For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700/month for blind) and still receive benefits.
Students can exclude up to $2,350/month in earned income, capped at $9,460 annually.
Learn more about SSI Income Estimator
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back, but you can request a waiver if it was not your fault.
Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes [date_accessed: 2025-11-06]
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. Many organizations offer free help for people with disabilities.
Yes, if your Parkinson’s Disease is medically documented, lasts at least 12 months, and significantly limits your ability to work. You may qualify for SSDI or SSI based on your work history and financial need.
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind) and still qualify for SSDI or SSI. Earning more may stop your benefits.
You need medical records, doctor’s notes, and test results that show your Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis and how it affects your daily life. The SSA will review this evidence to decide if you qualify.
The process can take several months. Texas DDS reviews your case, and you may be asked for more information. If denied, you can appeal, which can take longer.
Yes, you can work during a trial work period. SSDI recipients can earn over $1,160 in any month during a nine-month trial work period without losing benefits.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both can help with Parkinson’s Disease, but eligibility rules are different.
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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You do not need a lawyer, but one can help with the application and appeals process. Many disability lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.
Yes, children with Parkinson’s Disease may qualify for SSI if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Parents’ income and resources are considered for children under 18.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You can request a reconsideration, a hearing, or review by the Appeals Council. Many people are approved on appeal.
Medicaid waivers help pay for home care, therapy, and other services not covered by regular Medicaid. They can help with long-term care needs for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
