What Medical Conditions Qualify for Disability Benefits In Texas?

What Conditions Qualify for Disability Benefits In Texas?

If you live in Texas and you struggle with a medical condition that has rendered you unable to work, you may wonder if your condition qualifies for disability benefits. That’s an important question to ask. Being unable to work can be a source of tremendous financial stress, and disability benefits from the Social Security Administration can undoubtedly be helpful in relieving that stress.

Let’s take a closer look at what types of disability benefits the Social Security Administration offers Texas residents and what conditions may qualify.

What Types of Disability Benefits Are Available?

Social Security is a federally administrated program. As a result, residents of all 50 states may be eligible for the disability benefits that are offered. These benefits include:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits: SSDI benefits are disability benefits that the Social Security Administration pays individuals with a qualifying medical condition that has rendered them disabled for at least one continuous calendar year or more. In addition, the individual must be “insured.” This means that they worked a qualifying job for a sufficient length of time and regularly paid a portion of their earnings from that job into the Social Security system.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits: As is the case with SSDI benefits, in order to receive SSI benefits, an individual must have a qualifying medical condition that has rendered them disabled for at least one continuous calendar year or more. Unlike the case with SSDI benefits, however, to receive SSI benefits, an individual need not be “insured.” Instead, they must have income and resources below a certain limit established by the Social Security Administration. This limit may change yearly, depending upon various economic factors.

Depending upon an individual’s unique circumstances, they may qualify for one or both types of benefits. Consulting with an attorney regarding your unique situation is always advised to ensure that you fully pursue all the benefits to which you may be entitled.

What Conditions Are Eligible for Disability Benefits?

Because Social Security is a federal system, the conditions that are eligible for benefits are generally the same in all states. In determining whether a particular medical condition qualifies as a disability, the Social Security Administration will often consult its Listing of Impairments, otherwise commonly known as the “Blue Book.”

The Blue Book is essentially a guide containing various conditions and their associated symptoms, which, if established through sufficient medical evidence, may qualify for disability benefits. There are many conditions listed in the Blue Book, some of which include:

  • Respiratory disorders
  • Various types of cancer
  • Digestive disorders
  • Immune disorders
  • Mental disorders
  • Cardiovascular conditions
  • Blood disorders
  • Musculoskeletal conditions
  • Skin conditions
  • Neurological disorders
  • And many more.

If your particular condition isn’t listed in the Blue Book, you shouldn’t panic or assume that your request for benefits will automatically be denied. Instead, you may simply have to present additional evidence establishing your condition and the manner in which it renders you disabled.

No matter what medical condition you have, however, it’s also essential to keep in mind that in order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, the condition must render you disabled for a period of at least one continuous calendar year or more. Short-term conditions do not qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

How Much Might You Receive Disability Benefits?

Regardless of whether you believe you may qualify for SSDI benefits, SSI benefits, or both, it is essential to understand that the amount of the benefit you receive will not depend upon your particular condition. Ultimately, if your condition is found to qualify for benefits, the amount paid will depend on other circumstances, including work and earning history, total income and resources, and other factors.

If you’re wondering what all of this means with regard to your particular situation, that’s understandable. The law can often seem complicated and confusing, and it’s normal to worry about whether or not you’re doing all you can to pursue your rights. The good news is, that you don’t have to do it alone. Instead, you can call the talented and experienced legal team at Muse Disability. We’re always here for you.

Call Muse Disability Today

If you are struggling with a disability, you may, at times, feel overwhelmed. That’s understandable. It can be very stressful to try to adapt to living with a difficult medical condition while also trying to provide for yourself and those you love. Disability benefits can be tremendously helpful in relieving that financial stress. At Muse Disability, we know exactly how important these benefits can be to our clients, and that’s why we’re here to help you pursue them. Our knowledgeable and experienced team understands the law, and we know the best strategies to help you fight for the benefits you need and deserve. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to helping you soon.