If you have a spinal cord injury in Texas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with a spinal cord injury, your condition must:
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step process to decide eligibility:
If you can’t do any of these, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI[1][5][6].
Texas follows federal rules for SSDI and SSI eligibility, but the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles medical reviews. For spinal cord injury, Texas DDS will check your medical records and work history to see if you meet SSA standards[1][2].
Texas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with physical disabilities, which can help pay for home care, equipment, and therapy. These waivers are not automatic with SSDI/SSI—you must apply separately[1].
If you’re under 22 and have a spinal cord injury, you may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s work record, even if you’ve never worked[6].
Texas does not have a separate state disability program, so federal rules apply for SSDI and SSI[1][2].
Texas offers several Medicaid waiver programs for people with physical disabilities like spinal cord injury:
These waivers can help pay for home health aides, equipment, and therapy not covered by Medicare or private insurance[1].
Texas does not have a state disability cash benefit, so federal SSDI and SSI are the main sources of income support[1].
You can also get help with employment, transportation, and housing through Texas Vocational Rehabilitation and other state agencies[1].
ABLE accounts let Texans with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000/year in 2025. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like therapy, equipment, or housing[3].
Learn more about Texas ABLE accounts and how to open one[3].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much, you may have to pay it back. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes[2].
Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[2].
Contact Texas Vocational Rehabilitation or a local disability advocate for free help with your application.
Yes, if your spinal cord injury prevents you from working and meets SSA’s medical criteria. You must have a documented condition that lasts at least 12 months and stops you from doing substantial work[1][5][6].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning above this may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits[2][4][6].
You can apply for Medicaid waivers like Community First Choice or STAR+PLUS through Texas Health and Human Services. These programs help with home care and equipment for people with physical disabilities[1].
Yes, but there are limits. SSDI has a trial work period where you can earn over $1,160/month for 9 months without losing benefits. SSI has work incentives that let you earn more without losing eligibility[2].
The average SSDI payment in Texas is $1,580/month in 2025. The maximum is $4,018/month, based on your work history[2][7].
Yes, you must live in Texas to apply for state programs like Medicaid waivers. For SSDI and SSI, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and live in the U.S.[1][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, children with spinal cord injury may qualify for SSI if their family meets income limits. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may get benefits based on a parent’s record[4][6].
You need detailed medical records, including doctor notes, imaging, therapy reports, and a statement from your doctor about your functional limits[1][5].
Most initial claims take 3–6 months. If denied, appeals can take 12–18 months. Medical evidence and a clear application help speed up the process[1][2].
Yes, Texas offers programs for transportation and housing for people with disabilities. Check with Texas Vocational Rehabilitation and local agencies for help[1].
