What are SSDI eligibility requirements in Texas?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/16/2025
If you live in Texas and can no longer work due to a disabling condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict eligibility requirements. Understanding these requirements can help you determine if you qualify before applying.
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1. Work Credits Requirement
SSDI is an insurance program funded through your payroll taxes. To qualify, you must have earned enough work credits. Generally:
- You earn one work credit for every $1,730 in wages or self-employment income (2025 amount)
- You can earn up to four credits per year
- Most people need at least 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled
Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits based on their age at the time of disability.
2. Severe Medical Condition
You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that:
- Significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities
- Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months, or result in death
3. Meeting or Equaling a Listed Impairment
SSA’s Blue Book (Listing of Impairments) includes medical conditions that can qualify for SSDI if specific criteria are met, such as:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (severe back injuries, joint disorders)
- Neurological conditions (multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease)
- Cardiovascular diseases (heart failure, coronary artery disease)
- Respiratory disorders (COPD, severe asthma)
- Mental disorders (depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
- Cancer, immune system disorders, and other severe conditions
If your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if it limits your ability to work significantly.
4. Inability to Engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
To qualify for SSDI:
- You must not be able to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your condition
- In 2025, SGA is defined as earning more than $1,550 per month ($2,590 if blind)
- If your earnings exceed this amount, SSA generally considers you not disabled, regardless of your condition.
5. Inability to Perform Past or Other Work
SSA will assess whether:
- You can perform any of your past relevant work despite your condition
- You can adjust to other types of work based on your age, education, and transferable skills
- If SSA determines you can do other work, your claim may be denied.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we understand how confusing SSDI eligibility rules can be. Our experienced team can:
- Evaluate Your Work History and Credits: To confirm you meet SSA’s work requirements
- Assess Your Medical Condition: To determine if your disability meets SSA’s strict definition
- Gather Strong Medical Evidence: To build a comprehensive and convincing application
- Guide You Through the Process: From your initial application to appeals if needed
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you are unsure whether you meet SSDI eligibility requirements in Texas or need assistance applying for benefits, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the SSDI process and secure the benefits you deserve.
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