What is the disability determination process in Texas?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/22/2025
If you're applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Texas, your claim must go through a specific process managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS). Understanding how your application is evaluated can help you better prepare—and improve your chances of success.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how the disability determination process works in Texas.
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Step 1: Initial SSDI or SSI Application Submission
You begin by filing your disability application with the SSA, which you can do:
- Online at www.ssa.gov
- By phone
- At your local Texas SSA office
You’ll be required to complete forms such as:
- SSA-16 (Application for SSDI)
- SSA-3368 (Adult Disability Report)
- SSA-827 (Medical Authorization Release)
The SSA confirms your non-medical eligibility before forwarding your case to Texas DDS for medical evaluation.
Step 2: Medical Review by Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS)
Once your application is referred to Texas DDS, a claims examiner and a medical consultant review your:
- Medical records
- Physician opinions
- Test results and imaging
- Statements about daily functioning
If your medical records are incomplete, DDS may arrange a Consultative Examination (CE) with an independent doctor.
Step 3: Applying the Five-Step Disability Evaluation Process
Texas DDS uses the SSA’s five-step process to decide whether you meet the definition of “disabled”:
- Are you working? If you're earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your claim may be denied.
- Is your condition severe? Your disability must significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities.
- Does your condition match an SSA listing? If yes, you are considered disabled automatically.
- Can you do your past work? DDS checks if you can return to previous employment.
- Can you do any other work? If not, based on your age, education, and work experience, you may qualify for benefits.
Step 4: Receive a Decision
After the medical review, Texas DDS sends their determination to the SSA, which will either:
- Approve your claim and start benefit payments, OR
- Deny your claim, providing a reason in writing
This stage typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly your medical records are received.
Step 5: Appeal If Necessary
If denied, you have the right to appeal within 60 days. The appeals process includes:
- Reconsideration by a different DDS examiner
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Appeals Council Review
- Federal Court Review, if necessary
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know how frustrating and confusing the disability determination process can be—especially in a large state like Texas. We help you:
- Submit a complete and compelling application
- Gather and organize all required medical evidence
- Communicate with DDS and SSA on your behalf
- Represent you in appeals, if necessary
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re starting the SSDI or SSI application process—or if your claim was denied—contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the Texas determination process step-by-step and help ensure your claim is strong from the start. Your path to benefits begins here. Let’s take it together.
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