Living with a disability of any type impacts your quality of life. You might feel alone, depressed, and worried about your health and your future. That is perfectly normal. While you might feel like you are alone, though, you should know that there are resources available to help you out. The following four resources are some of the most helpful ones out there for anyone with a disability and are worth giving a shot.
Medicaid
First and foremost, Medicaid is a joint state and federal health insurance program that is available to people with low income. Since many people with disabilities cannot afford regular health care costs, Medicaid picks up the cost.
Medicaid is not exclusively available for adults. It also covers children, pregnant women, and people over the age of 65. You do not need to have a disability to apply for Medicaid, but if you have one, Medicaid can help cover mounting medical expenses.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will pay benefits to you if you have paid into Social Security taxes throughout your working years. It can also help cover some members of your household. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pays out benefits to adults with disabilities as well as children with limited family income and resources. Many who apply qualify for both sources, and the medical requirements for these programs are the same.
If you are young or haven’t worked many years, you might consider hiring a disability attorney, such as Iler and Iler. An attorney can help you appeal a rejection and get your case reviewed by a judge. This can also speed the process up. Just be prepared to hand your attorney your medical records verifying your disability.
An ABLE Account
The Achieving a Better Life Experience act (ABLE) gives individuals and families a chance to contribute to these tax-advantaged savings accounts. These contributions are made using post-tax dollars and are therefore not tax deductible for federal taxes.
Those who meet the age requirement and have SSDI and/or SSI benefits are automatically qualified to receive an ABLE account. Family and friends can contribute up to $15,000 for one tax year. This can be put toward expenses like transportation, housing, and education.
Housing Vouchers
For those with disabilities, obtaining and maintaining stable, affordable, and barrier-free housing can be a challenge. That is why many people choose to apply for housing vouchers. This federal program caters to low-income families, people with disabilities, and senior citizens.
With a housing voucher, you can choose housing that meets the program’s requirements but do not have to live in a subsidized housing complex. Local housing agencies determine if you are qualified. In order to apply, you will have to contact your local public housing agency, although the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) can also answer your questions.
There is an abundance of resources available to help you live with your disability. These are just a few of the resources widely available. Many state and local agencies provide more specific assistance. Remember, there is no shame in asking for help, especially when your quality of life is being compromised by a health condition that is outside of your control.