Filing for Social Security Disability benefits in Texas involves both federal and state-level steps. Although the benefits themselves come from a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), each state—including Texas—has its own role in determining whether you qualify medically. In Texas, the state Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews claims to decide whether your health condition meets the SSA’s strict standards.
If you’re thinking about applying for disability benefits, working with experienced legal counsel from the very beginning can make a meaningful difference. The GCC Law Firm has years of experience helping people like you file strong, well-documented disability claims and can help you avoid common mistakes that cost applicants valuable time and benefits.
What Are the Two Federal Disability Programs?
The SSA runs two separate programs for people with disabilities: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both require that you be found medically disabled under the same standards, but they differ in how you qualify when considering income and available financial resources.
SSDI is based on your work history. You must have paid Social Security taxes and earned a sufficient number of work credits over the past 10 years. If you qualify, your monthly payment will depend on your average lifetime earnings.
SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program. It is available to individuals with limited income and financial resources, regardless of their work history. SSI eligibility in Texas may also make you automatically eligible for Medicaid coverage.
The GCC Law Firm helps clients throughout Texas determine which program—or both—they may qualify for and guides them in gathering the necessary financial and medical information to support their application.
Where Do You Start the Disability Application Process in Texas?
To apply for either SSDI or SSI, your first step is to file an application with the Social Security Administration. You can do this in one of three ways:
- Online: Through the SSA’s official website.
- By Phone: Calling the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
- In Person: By visiting your local Social Security office in Texas.
However, attempting to prepare and file your own disability claim can be a risky endeavor. Filing a Social Security Disability claim involves many complicated issues relating to the nature and severity of your claimed disabling impairment. The medical records supporting your claim need to be thoroughly analyzed to ensure that important details are highlighted to emphasize the most significant features of your experience and prospect for performing substantial gainful activities.
The application will require personal information, work history, and medical records that explain how your condition limits your ability to work. While the SSA manages this part of the process, many applicants in Texas do not realize how important the next step is—and that’s where state agencies become involved.
What Role Does Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS) Play?
Once your application is submitted, it is transferred to the Texas Disability Determination Services (DDS), a state agency that operates under the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. DDS is responsible for reviewing your medical records and determining whether your condition qualifies as a disability under SSA standards.
DDS assigns a disability examiner to your case. The examiner may:
- Review the medical records you submitted
- Contact your doctors for more detailed information
- Send you to a Consultative Examination (CE) if there’s not enough evidence
The medical decision made by DDS is sent back to the SSA, which then either approves or denies your initial application.
This stage is particularly sensitive. Incomplete records, missing medical reports, or lack of documentation about your functional limitations can easily result in a denial. That’s why many applicants choose to work with the skilled disability attorneys at The GCC Law Firm. Our skilled attorneys help gather and organize all the records needed to support your claim, present your case effectively, and follow up with the SSA and DDS to keep your claim moving forward.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision?
On average, it can take three to six months to receive a decision on your initial application. However, if there are delays in obtaining your medical records or if a consultative exam is required, it can take longer. In recent years, federal staffing issues and backlogs at state DDS offices have added to these delays. That makes it even more important to make sure your application is accurate and complete the first time around.
Our attorneys at The GCC Law Firm are familiar with the inner workings of both the SSA and the Texas DDS. They know how to help move your case forward by staying in regular contact with both agencies and making sure nothing is left out or overlooked.
What If Your Disability Claim Is Denied?
Unfortunately, most initial disability claims are denied—nationally, the denial rate for first-time applications is about 65%. Texas follows that same pattern. A denial doesn’t mean you’re not eligible, but it does mean you’ll need to appeal.
The appeals process has multiple levels:
- Reconsideration: Your case is reviewed again by a different DDS examiner.
- Hearing: If denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
- Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you may ask for a review by the SSA Appeals Council.
- Federal Court: If necessary, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.
Each stage has specific deadlines. Missing one can mean starting the process over. The GCC Law Firm has represented hundreds of claimants in Texas through every stage of appeal and knows how to build a persuasive case at each level.
Can You File for Disability Without a Lawyer?
Yes, you can—but doing so means taking on a complex system that’s built around rules and procedures many applicants find overwhelming. A missed deadline, incomplete medical file, or poorly worded form can cause major delays or a denial that could’ve been avoided.
Hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re admitting defeat—it means you’re serious about getting approved. The attorneys at The GCC Law Firm know how to identify weaknesses in a claim and fix them before they become a problem. They also help prepare your statements, coach you before your hearing (if needed), and speak directly with SSA or DDS on your behalf.
Why Should You Work with The GCC Law Firm?
The GCC Law Firm is a nationally recognized Social Security Disability law firm with deep experience helping Texas residents apply for and win disability benefits. The firm’s attorneys understand the process inside and out—from the paperwork to the timelines to the medical evidence that decision-makers want to see.