Texas offers SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid programs for people with short stature and other disabilities, but does not have a state disability program. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, benefit amounts, and where to get more help.
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) you must meet strict federal rules. For SSDI, you need enough work credits and a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least a year or is expected to result in death[6][7]. For SSI, income and resources must be very low, and disability must severely limit daily life—especially for children[5].
SSDI:
SSI:
Texas does not have a state disability benefit program—only federal SSI and SSDI are available through the Social Security Administration[1][3]. Texas Medicaid offers special waiver programs (HCBS) that may help with home and community-based services for people with disabilities, but you must also meet Texas Medicaid’s financial rules.
Key Texas Differences:
To apply for Texas disability benefits for short stature, start with Social Security (SSA). SSI and SSDI are your main options—there is no Texas state disability payment.
Quick Steps:
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Step 2: Complete the Application
Step 3: Submit and Follow Up
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Medicare/Medicaid
ABLE Accounts
Texas has no state disability benefit program—all cash disability assistance comes from federal SSI and SSDI[1][3]. However, Texas Medicaid offers important waiver programs for people with disabilities, including those with short stature, who need help living in the community.
Medicaid Waivers (Home and Community-Based Services, HCBS)
Other Texas Supports
Texas ABLE Accounts let you save for disability expenses (education, housing, health, transportation) without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can save up to $100,000 in an ABLE account and keep SSI. Earnings grow tax-free. Learn more and open an account at Texas ABLE or the national ABLE consortium[Internal Link].
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and/or Texas Medicaid. Failing to report can result in overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person to avoid problems. Learn more about your reporting responsibilities[Internal Link].
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SSDI is for people with enough work history who paid into Social Security. SSI is for low-income children and adults with disabilities, regardless of work history. Short stature must cause severe limits in either case. Texas has no state disability benefit—help comes from federal SSI and SSDI[1][3][6].
Yes, if your income and resources are low enough and your short stature severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. Apply through the Social Security Administration—Texas has no separate program[1][3].[Internal Link]
Texas Medicaid offers several HCBS waivers for people with disabilities, but there is no waiver just for short stature. If you qualify for Medicaid and have functional needs, you may access waiver services. Apply through Texas Health and Human Services[Internal Link].
Earning over the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind adults in 2025) can cause loss of SSDI benefits. SSI recipients can use work incentives to earn some money without immediately losing benefits. Always report earnings to Social Security to avoid overpayments[1][2].[Internal Link]
Many applications are denied at first. You can appeal the decision. Get help from a disability lawyer or advocate. Gather more medical evidence and consider a second application or appeal[3].[Internal Link]
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, if the child’s condition causes marked and severe functional limitations, and if family income and resources are low enough. Apply through Social Security—Texas has no state children’s disability program[5].[Internal Link]
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. In Texas, you can save up to $100,000 without losing SSI. Earnings are tax-free, and funds can be used for disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation[Internal Link].
Apply for Medicaid first through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). If you qualify, ask about HCBS waiver programs for added services. Some waivers have long waiting lists—apply early[Internal Link].
No. Short stature alone does not guarantee benefits. The SSA looks at how your condition affects your ability to work and perform daily activities. Medical evidence must show marked and severe functional limitations[1][6].
Contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213. You can also get help from disability advocates or lawyers. Texas Law Help offers free legal information and resources[6].
