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Guide to Austin Disability Assistance Programs and Services

Appealing for benefits is best done under the guidance of an experienced disability lawyer.

Author Attorney Greg Reed:
Updated: 11/22/2024

What organizations provide assistance for the disabled in the Austin area?

There are a number of organizations that can offer assistance to the disabled including:

  •   The Social Security Administration: A governmental agency that provides benefits to people who are unable to work due to a medical condition.
  •    Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services: Offers services for older adults and people with disabilities.
  •    The Arc of the Capital Area: They ares dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  •    ARCIL (Austin Resource Center for Independent Living): Dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing essential resources and support.
  •    Workforce Solutions Capital Area: Provide vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs.
  •    The Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas: They offer educational programs, social events, and advocacy initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those affected.


Navigating Disability Assistance in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is a city known for its vibrant culture and progressive spirit. It also has a strong commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. If you or someone you know is living with a disability in Austin, there are a variety of assistance programs and services available to help you live independently and reach your full potential.

Guide to disability services in Austin Texas


If you have recently become disabled, there are a few important government programs for you to contact depending on your needs:

  1.   Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI:This program provides benefits to people who are unable to work due to a medical condition.
  2.   Supplemental Security Income:SSI is a federal program that provides cash assistance to low-income individuals with disabilities.
  3.   Medicaid:This is a program that provides health insurance coverage for low-income individuals, including many people with disabilities.
  4.   Medicare:A federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older, as well as some younger people with disabilities.


Initially, for help with SSD and SSI you should contact your local Social Security Administration office: They can provide information on SSDI and SSI benefits.

In Austin call: 866-627-6991. For assistance with Medicaid and Medicare, you can apply online or through your local health insurance marketplace.


Additional government resources which may be able to provide support include the following:

    Texas Health and Human Services:

  1.   A state agency that provides information and assistance on a variety of disability-related programs. 512-929-7330.
  2.   Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services:Offers services for older adults and people with disabilities, including home and community-based services. 512-438-3011.


Non-Profit Organizations

There are a number of private organizations which can provide assistance for the disabled in the Austin area. These include:

The Arc of the Capital Area:

This organization offers a range of services, including advocacy, support groups, and residential programs. The ARC is dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It provides a range of services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for these individuals and promoting their inclusion in the community. The organization focuses on advocacy, education, and various programs that empower individuals and their families, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities for personal growth and development.

You can reach the ARC at: 512-454-6694


Disability Rights Texas:

Disability Rights Texas is dedicated to advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities and provides free legal assistance, education, and support to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to services, opportunities, and resources. Through various programs, Disability Rights Texas promotes independence, inclusion, and the overall well-being of those it serves, while also addressing systemic issues that affect the disability community.

You can reach Disability Rights Texas at: 512-454-4816.


ARCIL (Austin Resource Center for Independent Living):

ARCIL is an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing essential resources and support. It offers a range of services including advocacy, independent living skills training, and assistance with accessing community resources. ARCIL aims to promote self-sufficiency and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities, fostering an inclusive environment where they can thrive and participate fully in society.
You can contact ARCIL at: 512-832-6349.

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Workforce Solutions Capital Area:

This organization provides vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs, serving as a vital resource for job seekers as well as employers. Workforce Solutions provide a range of services designed to enhance workforce development, including job training, career counseling, and employment placement assistance. The organization collaborates with local businesses to identify labor market needs and offers programs that equip individuals with the skills necessary to succeed in various industries. Additionally, it fosters partnerships with educational institutions to promote continuous learning and professional growth within the community.
Workforce Solutions Capital Area can be reached at: North Career Center 512-454-9675 or East Career Center 512-381-4200.


Austin also has specific resources for particular disabilities, such as mental health and developmental disabilities.

Mental Health Disability Resources

Numerous organizations in Austin provide support for individuals facing mental health disabilities, offering a range of services including counseling, therapy, and community resources aimed at enhancing mental well-being.

Notable organizations include Austin State Hospital which specializes in psychiatric care, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Austin which focuses on education and advocacy, and Integral Care which provides comprehensive mental health services, including crisis intervention and support for those with severe mental illnesses. You can contact these organizations at the following numbers:

Austin State Hospital: 512-452-0381
National Alliance on Mental Illness: 512-693-2000
Integral Care: 512-472- 4357


Developmental Disabilities Resources

Numerous organizations in Austin, Texas provide support for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas offers educational programs, social events, and advocacy initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those affected. Additionally, the Arc of Texas focuses on promoting inclusion and providing services tailored to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome. Another notable organization is Special Olympics Texas, which offers sports training and competitions for individuals with Down syndrome, fostering physical fitness and social interaction. These organizations play a crucial role in building a supportive community for individuals with Down syndrome in Austin. To contact any of these organizations see below:

Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas: 512-323-0808
Arc of Texas: 512-454-6694
Special Olympics Texas: 512-835-9873


Austin, Texas is a city with a strong commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.

Remember, you’re not alone. There are many people and organizations in Austin dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives. By understanding the available resources and taking the necessary steps, you can access the support you need.


Bemis, Roach & Reed is an Austin Disability law firm dedicated to helping folks just like you obtain the disability benefits they deserve.

With over 100 years combined experience helping the disabled we have the knowledge and proven track record to help you win your Social Security disability or Long-Term Disability claim. If you have applied for benefits and been denied, contact the attorneys at Bemis, Roach and Reed for a free consultation. Call 512-454-4000 and get help NOW.

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Disability benefits are an important source of income for those who are unable to work. If you are not able to work due to accident or illness, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability or Long Term Disability benefits. If you have applied for benefits and been denied, contact the attorneys at Bemis, Roach and Reed for a free consultation. Call 512-454-4000 and get help NOW.

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Author: Attorney Greg Reed has been practicing law for 29 years. He is Superlawyers rated by Thomson Reuters and is Top AV Preeminent® and Client Champion Gold rated by Martindale Hubbell. Through his extensive litigation Mr. Reed obtained board certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Greg is admitted to practice in the United States District Court – all Texas Districts and the United States Court of Appeals-Fifth Circuit. Mr. Reed is a member of the Travis County Bar Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, past Director of the Capital Area Trial Lawyers Association, and an Associate member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Mr. Reed and all the members of Bemis, Roach & Reed have been active participants in the Travis County Lawyer referral service.

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