Individuals with disabilities can access government programs including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, Medicare, Section 811 housing, vocational rehabilitation, and assistive technology programs. These programs provide financial support, healthcare, housing, and employment assistance to help disabled individuals live independently.
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Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI provides monthly benefits to workers who become disabled and have paid enough Social Security taxes. The average SSDI benefit provides income replacement based on your lifetime earnings. SSDI recipients also qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly payments to disabled individuals and children with limited income and resources. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. The SSI payment amount is set federally, with some states providing supplemental payments.
Healthcare for Disabled Individuals
Healthcare Programs
- Medicaid: Free comprehensive health coverage for SSI recipients
- Medicare: Available to SSDI recipients after 24-month waiting period
- CHIP: Coverage for children with disabilities
- Medicaid waivers: Home and community-based services
- State disability programs: Additional coverage varies by state
Housing Assistance
Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities provides affordable rental housing. Section 8 vouchers give preference to disabled individuals. Many housing authorities have accessible units designated for people with disabilities. Independent living centers help disabled individuals find appropriate housing.
Employment and Vocational Rehabilitation
State vocational rehabilitation agencies help disabled individuals prepare for, find, and maintain employment. Services include career counseling, job training, assistive technology, job placement, and on-the-job support. The Ticket to Work program helps SSDI and SSI recipients return to work without immediately losing benefits.
Assistive Technology Programs
Every state has an Assistive Technology program that provides equipment and services to help disabled individuals with daily activities, communication, education, and employment. Programs may provide free or low-cost assistive devices including wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication devices, and computer access tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply for SSDI or SSI at SSA.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office. The process requires medical documentation of your disability. Consider getting help from a disability attorney or advocate.
SSDI is for workers who have paid Social Security taxes and become disabled. SSI is for disabled individuals with limited income and resources regardless of work history. SSDI leads to Medicare; SSI leads to Medicaid.
Disabled individuals can access Section 811 housing, Section 8 vouchers with disability preference, accessible public housing units, Medicaid home and community-based waivers, and independent living center assistance.
