Government Assistance for Disabilities

The Social Security Administration offers programs to financially assist citizens with a disability, as well as provide medical insurance to those in need. These programs are in place to assist low-income citizens with a disability have the means to pay for basic needs such as shelter, food and clothing.

• Social Security Insurance provides income to anyone who is a citizen of the United States and has a permanent or temporary disability that is expected to last more than 6 months. This program is based on income, and all recipients must meet the income eligibility requirements to receive this type of benefit. 

• Housing is available for the disabled through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This low-income housing provides safe living condition to applicants with a disability that meet the income guidelines. The amount of money paid per month varies depending on the income of the applicant.

• Social Security Disability insurance, which is commonly referred to as SSDI, is available to anyone who has earned enough work credits in the United States by paying taxes. This program can be collected in conjunction with other programs such as SSI as long as the recipient meets the income requirements for the program.

• Medicare provides medical insurance for the elderly and disabled. This program is available to anyone who is disabled and meets the income eligibility requirements. If the applicant has low-income and qualifies for SSI, they are automatically qualified to receive Medicare. It is possible to combine Medicaid and Medicare benefits to help cover medical expenses if the applicant qualifies for both programs.