Debunking Common Myths About Social Security Disability in Texas

Beyond the Luck of the Irish—Dispelling Misinformation About SSDI Benefits

You’ve suffered an injury or developed an illness that prevents you from working, but it’s not work-related. You may, however, be eligible for benefits through a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim, but you’ve heard a lot of confusing or conflicting stories about SSDI benefits. Unfortunately, there are many common myths about Social Security Disability in Texas. At Bailey & Galyen, we can help debunk many of them.

Myth #1—Your First SSDI Claim Will Automatically Be Denied

There’s a common perception that your first Social Security Disability claim will be denied as a matter of course. Statistics show, however, that about one in four first-time claimants successfully secure SSDI benefits. The data also suggests that, if you have legal representation, the likelihood of approval goes up by as much as 20%.

Myth #2—You Can File for SSDI Benefits Only If You’ve Been Unable to Work for at Least One Year

For purposes of an SSDI claim, the Social Security Administration defines a disability as one that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or that is expected to result in your death. Accordingly, if you’ve been diagnosed with any type of physical or mental condition or impairment that doctors anticipate will prevent you from working for a year, you can apply immediately.

Myth #3—You Cannot Apply for and Receive SSDI Benefits If You’re Collecting Workers’ Compensation

Neither Social Security law nor Texas workers’ compensation law prohibits you from receiving SSDI and workers’ comp benefits simultaneously. There is, however, an offset against your Social Security benefits if you’re receiving workers’ compensation.

Myth #4—To Be Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits, You Cannot Have Any Gainful Employment

You can earn other income, but there are limits. You cannot work more than 20 hours per week, and your income must fall below guidelines established by the Social Security Administration. Referred to as “substantial gainful activity (SGA),” it may not exceed $1,620 per month for a non-blind individual in 2025. If you are legally blind, the permissible monthly SGA increases to $2,700.

Myth #5—If You Return to Work at All, You Will Lose Your SSDI Benefits

Under the laws governing Social Security Disability benefits, you can attempt to return to work without jeopardizing your benefits. The law allows a “trial work period” during which you can test out your ability to work while still maintaining your status as disabled. Such a trial period can last up to nine months. Furthermore, any given month counts as part of your trial period only if you earn in excess of $1,160 during that month.

Myth #6—SSDI Benefits Are Exempt From Child Support Obligations

If you have an existing child support order when you qualify for SSDI benefits, you can expect your SSDI payments to be automatically reduced to meet that obligation, as the government typically garnishes benefits payments and redirects funds to pay child support.

Let the Experienced SSDI Lawyers at Bailey & Galyen Help Protect Your Rights

At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we bring more than 40 years of experience to people in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and across Texas who seek Social Security Disability Insurance benefits because of an illness or injury. We have a thorough understanding of the laws governing Social Security Disability benefits and will be your advocate throughout the process. To speak with a knowledgeable and skilled SSDI attorney, contact us by e-mail or call our offices. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.