How to Find Extra Financial Support Beyond SSI & SSDI
Introduction: Where Can You Find Financial Help If You Have a Disability?
Living with a disability often comes with added financial challenges, from medical expenses to daily living costs. While Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provide financial support, they may not always be enough.
Fortunately, there are many financial assistance programs available to help people with disabilities cover essential expenses, reduce costs, and improve financial stability.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Government programs that provide disability financial assistance
✅ Nonprofit organizations that offer support
✅ How to apply for these programs
✅ How Purple helps manage disability benefits and finances
If you or a loved one need extra financial help, keep reading!
1. Government Financial Assistance Programs for People with Disabilities
The U.S. government provides several programs to help individuals with disabilities pay for basic needs, including food, housing, medical care, and transportation.
✅ Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Who Qualifies?
People with limited income and resources
Individuals who are 65+ or have a qualifying disability
How Much Can You Get?
In 2025, the maximum SSI benefit is $943/month for individuals ($1,415 for couples).
💡 Tip: SSI has a $2,000 asset limit ($3,000 for couples). To save money without losing benefits, consider using an ABLE account.
✅ Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Who Qualifies?
Individuals with a disability that prevents them from working
Must have enough work credits from past employment
How Much Can You Get?
The average SSDI benefit in 2025 is $1,537 per month, but amounts vary.
💡 Tip: If you're receiving SSDI, you may qualify for Medicare after 24 months.
✅ SNAP (Food Stamps) for Disability Assistance
Who Qualifies?
Low-income individuals and families, including those on SSI or SSDI
How Much Can You Get?
The maximum SNAP benefit in 2025 is around $291/month for one person
💡 Tip: You can use your EBT card for online grocery shopping at Walmart, Amazon, and other retailers.
✅ Housing Assistance Programs (HUD & Section 8)
Who Qualifies?
Low-income individuals with disabilities who need affordable housing
Types of Housing Assistance:
✔ Section 8 Vouchers – Helps pay rent in private housing
✔ HUD Subsidized Housing – Lower-cost apartments for disabled individuals
✔ Public Housing – Low-income rental housing through local housing authorities
💡 Tip: Waiting lists for Section 8 can be long—apply as soon as possible!
✅ Medicaid: Free or Low-Cost Health Insurance
Who Qualifies?
Low-income individuals, including many SSI recipients
What’s Covered?
✔ Doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs
✔ Personal care services for people with disabilities
✔ Home and community-based services (HCBS)
💡 Tip: Medicaid often covers more services than Medicare, including long-term care.
✅ Utility Assistance (LIHEAP & Lifeline Program)
Who Qualifies?
Low-income households, including those with disabilities
✔ LIHEAP: Helps pay for electric, heating, and cooling bills
✔ Lifeline Program: Provides discounted phone and internet service
💡 Tip: Some states offer free or discounted public transportation for disabled individuals.
2. Nonprofit & Private Financial Assistance Programs
Many charities and nonprofit organizations offer grants and financial aid to individuals with disabilities.
✅ The National Disability Institute (NDI)
Offers financial education and tax assistance for disabled individuals
✅ The Arc
Provides advocacy, housing assistance, and caregiver support
✅ Modest Needs
Offers small emergency grants for low-income workers, including disabled individuals
✅ United Way 211
Connects people with local financial assistance programs
💡 Tip: Call 211 or visit 211.org to find disability resources near you.
3. How to Apply for Disability Financial Assistance
To get the most out of these programs, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements
Each program has different income and disability criteria. Check their websites or call for details.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You may need:
✔ Proof of income (SSI, SSDI, or other benefits)
✔ Proof of disability (Doctor’s letter, SSA award letter)
✔ Identification and residency documents
Step 3: Submit Applications Online or In-Person
Many government and nonprofit programs allow online applications, but some may require in-person visits.
Step 4: Follow Up & Keep Records
Applications can take weeks or months to process. Keep copies of all documents and follow up if needed.
💡 Tip: If you are denied, appeal the decision—many applicants win appeals.
4. How Purple Helps Manage Disability Benefits & Financial Assistance
Keeping track of SSI, SSDI, SNAP, and other benefits can be overwhelming. Purple makes it easier with:
💜 Balance Tracking – Stay under SSI’s $2,000 asset limit
💜 EBT & Benefit Monitoring – Track SNAP, SSDI, and Medicaid payments
💜 Smart Budgeting Tools – Maximize assistance funds to cover essential expenses
💡 Purple helps people with disabilities manage their finances and benefits, all in one place!
FAQs About Financial Assistance for People with Disabilities
What If My SSI or SSDI Isn’t Enough to Cover My Expenses?
Check for food, housing, and utility assistance programs to supplement your income.
Can I Get Both SSI and SSDI?
Yes! If you qualify for both, you can receive concurrent benefits.
What If My Application for Assistance Is Denied?
Most programs allow appeals. If denied, request a reconsideration or appeal within the deadline.
How Can Purple Help with Managing My Benefits?
Purple makes it easy to track deposits, spending, and EBT balances so you never lose your benefits.
Conclusion: Find the Disability Financial Assistance You Need
Living with a disability can be financially challenging, but there are many government and nonprofit programs available to help with income, food, housing, healthcare, and daily expenses.
By applying for SSI, SSDI, SNAP, Medicaid, and housing assistance, you can ease financial burdens and gain greater financial security.
💜 Sign Up for Purple to Manage Your Benefits & Assistance Programs in One Place!