Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide pay benefits to qualified disabled individuals each month. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide pay benefits to qualified disabled individuals each month. These payments help to cover the costs of a disability, including treating their medical condition or living expenses associated with their impairment. However, disability benefits can also be used for other costs if you are struggling to make ends meet.
Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not specifically offer housing assistance, regardless of whether you are receiving SSD or SSI disability benefits. Disabled individuals who rely on these benefits often find it difficult to find affordable housing due to low income.
However, you can choose to use your benefit payments to help pay for things such as rent or utilities. You do not have to use your monthly disability payments only for expenses related to your disability. The only exception would be for lump-sum SSI pay payments to children with disabilities.
Fortunately, there are some programs available that subsidize housing and other necessities for low-income disabled individuals and families.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development helps pay rent for the disabled, elderly and low-income individuals and families. This program is also commonly referred to as Section 8 housing.
The way the program works is by subsidizing housing costs for recipients. The recipient is responsible for paying a portion of his or her income for rent each month, and the voucher makes up the difference.
For HCVP approval, applicants must meet strict guidelines, including:
- Family status
- Asset and income limits
- Citizenship status
- Criminal history free of certain convictions (including drug offenses)
If you are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits and you are having trouble making ends meet, meet with one of our experienced disability attorneys who can walk you through scenarios on how SSDI can improve your living situation.
How a Social Security Attorney Can Help
Whether you’re preparing your first SSDI application, submitting your claim for Reconsideration or appealing a rejected claim, you have a greater chance of success with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.
Attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman PC understand the complex SSDI application process and the information necessary to receive approval while maximizing the financial support you need for your condition. We also have a thorough knowledge of the appeals process and can help you assemble the additional information necessary to bolster your claim if you’ve been denied.
If you live in the Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach or Roanoke, Virginia, areas and need assistance filing your SSDI application or making an appeal, please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC by phone at (855) 880-8163 or through the form on this page to schedule a free consultation.
