A disability can change everything at once — your work, your income, the help you need at home. The benefits that exist to catch you are real. But they're split between the federal government and the State of Texas, and each one has its own rules.
This guide explains what each program is and who runs it. It does not list income limits or benefit amounts — those depend on your situation and change often. For that, talk to a Texas Health Help navigator. It's free and confidential.
1. SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
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
2. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
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
3. STAR+PLUS (Texas Medicaid)
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
4. Medicaid Aged & Disabled Waiver Programs
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
Caring for someone with a disability? You need a break too. Read our guide to respite care in Texas for short-term caregiver relief.
Official Program Websites
Local Disability Support Organizations in Your County
Coming soon
We're confirming local disability support organizations in your county before we list them here. In the meantime, a navigator can point you to help nearby.
Not sure which program is yours?
THH navigators can help you figure out which program applies to your situation and walk you through the application — call 346-699-7222 or start with Jessica.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between SSI and SSDI?+
Both are federal disability programs run by the Social Security Administration. SSI is based on financial need — it's for people with a disability and limited income and resources. SSDI is based on your work history — it's for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes before becoming disabled. Some people qualify for both. A THH navigator can help you figure out which one fits your situation.
Do I apply for SSI or SSDI through the State of Texas?+
No. SSI and SSDI are federal programs. You apply through the Social Security Administration, not Texas Health and Human Services. Texas Medicaid programs like STAR+PLUS are handled by the state. Our navigators can walk you through which office handles which part.
What is STAR+PLUS?+
STAR+PLUS is the Texas Medicaid managed care program for adults with disabilities and older adults who need long-term services and supports, such as help with daily activities at home.
What are Medicaid waiver programs?+
Waiver programs pay for home and community-based services — like in-home help, adaptive equipment, or respite — so a person who might otherwise need nursing facility care can keep living at home or in the community. Some programs have interest lists, so it helps to start early.
How much income can I have and still qualify?+
Income, asset, and work-history rules differ by program and change over time, so we don't list numbers on this page. Call a THH navigator at 346-699-7222 or start with Jessica — we'll look at your situation and help you understand what applies.
Does Texas Health Help decide if I'm eligible?+
No. We're a community nonprofit. Only the Social Security Administration and Texas Health and Human Services can decide eligibility. What we do is help you understand your options, gather your documents, and walk through the application — for free.
Disclaimer: Texas Health Help is a community nonprofit, not a government agency. We do not determine eligibility or approve benefits. Only the Social Security Administration and Texas Health and Human Services can make those decisions. This page is general educational information — eligibility rules change, so check with a navigator about your situation.