FoodCycled
Disability Hub

Disability assistance programs: SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and support services

Income, healthcare, housing, and employment programs for people with disabilities.

Federal and state programs support adults and children with disabilities through income, healthcare, housing, employment services, and home- and community-based care. The two main income programs are SSDI (based on work history) and SSI (based on financial need).

Verified Data
Government Linked
Nonprofit Partners
Real-time Status

Income programs

  • SSDI — Social Security Disability Insurance, based on past work and FICA contributions.
  • SSI — Supplemental Security Income, for low-income adults and children with disabilities.
  • VA disability compensation — for service-connected disabilities (see veterans page).

Healthcare

  • Medicaid — automatic with SSI in most states.
  • Medicare — kicks in 24 months after SSDI approval.
  • Medicaid HCBS waivers — pay for in-home care, personal attendants, day programs.

Housing, employment, and daily life

  • Section 811 — supportive housing for people with disabilities.
  • Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) — state agency that funds training and job placement.
  • ABLE accounts — tax-advantaged savings without losing SSI/Medicaid.
  • Centers for Independent Living (CILs) — peer-led local resource centers.

How to apply for SSDI or SSI

Apply at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Most initial applications are denied; if you're denied, file a reconsideration within 60 days. Free disability legal services and many private attorneys (paid only if you win) can help with appeals.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

  • How do I find government assistance near me?

    Start with 2-1-1 (dial or text from any U.S. phone) or visit Benefits.gov to screen for federal, state, and local programs by ZIP code. Your county social services office and local nonprofits can also point you to specific programs.

  • Do I have to be unemployed to qualify?

    No. Many programs help working households, seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and families with children. Eligibility is usually based on income, household size, and the specific program's rules — not employment status alone.

  • Will applying for assistance affect my immigration status?

    Most emergency programs (food, shelter, crisis utility help) do not count toward the public charge test. SNAP and TANF have specific rules. If you have questions, call a local legal aid office before applying.