People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Texas may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical documentation, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Texas, your condition must be medically documented, last or be expected to last at least 12 months, and significantly limit your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to determine eligibility:
In Texas, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles the medical review for SSDI and SSI applications. Prader-Willi Syndrome is often considered a severe impairment that meets the SSA’s definition of disability, especially in children and adults with marked functional limitations. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome. These waivers may cover services like personal care, respite care, and therapy. Eligibility for Medicaid waivers depends on income, resources, and functional needs. Texas residents should contact the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for more information on Medicaid waivers and other state-specific programs[1][2][4].
Texas offers several programs for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome:
State-specific information is limited; start here:
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Texas, you can open an ABLE account through the Texas ABLE Program. The account can be used for expenses such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. Contributions to the account are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free[1][2].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. For SSI, the federal benefit rate is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Resource limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. These limits may affect eligibility for SSI and Medicaid waivers[2][4].
It is important to report any changes in income, work, or medical condition to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility for benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. You can report changes online at SSA.gov or by contacting your local Social Security office. For Medicaid waivers, report changes to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission[1][2][4].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for help with applications and eligibility questions.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes severe obesity, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. It is caused by a defect on chromosome 15 and affects about 1 in 15,000 people.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medically documented disability that lasts at least 12 months, prevents you from working, and meets the SSA’s definition of disability. You must also have a work history and have paid Social Security taxes[1][5][6].
SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for disabled workers who have paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly benefits, but eligibility requirements differ[1][2][7].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals[2][4][6].
Medicaid waivers in Texas provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. These waivers may cover services like personal care, respite care, and therapy. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and functional needs[1][2][4].
To apply for Medicaid waivers in Texas, contact the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. You may need to provide proof of income, resources, and functional needs. The application process may include an assessment of your needs[1][2][4].
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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An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. It allows you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid[1][2].
You can report changes in income or work status online at SSA.gov or by contacting your local Social Security office. For Medicaid waivers, report changes to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission[1][2][4].
If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. You can request a waiver if you cannot afford to repay. Contact your local Social Security office for more information[1][2][4].
Yes, children with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the SSA’s definition of disability. The child’s income and resources, or those of family members, may affect eligibility[4][6].
