Disability Benefits Help in Texas — Apply for SSI, SSDI & Medicaid

1. Tell someone what you need

   Call Texas Health Help at 346-699-7222, chat with Jessica, or request a navigator. Or go straight to Social Security if you already know you want SSI/SSDI.

2. Gather your documents

   Medical records, doctor names, medicines, work history, and ID help your application move faster.

3. File the right application

   Apply for SSI/SSDI with Social Security (online, phone, or local office). Apply for Texas Medicaid / STAR+PLUS through YourTexasBenefits.com.

4. Stay with the process

   Disability claims often need follow-up. A navigator can help you track deadlines, appeals, and next steps — free.

• SSI = need-based federal disability (or age 65+) with limited income/resources
• SSDI = work-history federal disability if you paid Social Security taxes
• STAR+PLUS = Texas Medicaid for adults with disabilities needing long-term supports
• Waiver programs help people stay at home — some have interest lists; start early
• Applications take time; follow-up and appeals are normal — don’t give up alone

Helpful documents to gather:

• Photo ID and Social Security number
• List of doctors, clinics, hospitals, and medicines
• Medical records or permission for SSA to request them
• Work history (jobs, dates, duties) for SSDI
• Proof of income and living situation for SSI / Medicaid

Benefits paperwork can wait when you’re unsafe. Get help for the emergency first — then come back to applications when you’re ready. We’re still here.

SSI is a federal monthly benefit for people with a disability (or who are 65 and older) who have limited income and resources. It's based on financial need, not work history.

• Run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) — not the State of Texas
• You apply through SSA online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office
• Adults and children with disabilities may both be eligible

Wondering if your income or savings would count against you? Ask a navigator — we'll help you understand the rules for your situation. 346-699-7222

SSDI is also a federal program through the Social Security Administration. It's for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes, then became unable to work because of a disability.

• Based on your work history, not your household income
• Applied for through SSA — the same agency as SSI, but a different program
• Some people qualify for both SSI and SSDI at the same time

Not sure whether you've worked enough to qualify? A navigator can help you find out and walk you through the application. 346-699-7222

STAR+PLUS is the Texas Medicaid managed care program for adults with disabilities and seniors who need long-term services and supports. It's run by the state through Texas Health and Human Services.

• Covers medical care plus help with everyday needs at home
• Members get a health plan and a service coordinator
• Separate from SSI/SSDI — though some people on SSI also get Medicaid

Want to know if STAR+PLUS applies to you or a loved one? Our navigators can check with you and help you apply. 346-699-7222

Texas Medicaid waiver programs pay for home and community-based services as an alternative to nursing facility care. The goal: help people stay in their own homes and communities as long as possible.

• Services can include in-home personal care, home modifications, and respite for caregivers
• Programs are run by Texas Health and Human Services
• Some programs have interest lists — getting started early matters

Waiver programs are some of the hardest to figure out alone. A navigator can help you sort out which ones fit and how to get on the list. 346-699-7222

We don’t replace these organizations — we help you reach them. Use them as your official or advocacy doors; use Texas Health Help when you need a guide through the maze.

Start with your county hub for clinics and local resources, then come back here for disability applications — or call us and we’ll connect both.