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There are many obstacles to housing for people with disabilities. Many disabled people are at risk of institutionalization or destitution in the absence of affordable, accessible housing in the community.
Disabled people who rely solely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits without additional income may have trouble affording housing or rent. SSDI recipients are frequently unable to afford the rental market in the United States due to their low income, unless they have another source of livelihood.
Special Homes For Disabled Are Often More Expensive
Complicating matters, disabled people typically require housing that is specifically tailored to their needs. They frequently require purpose-built housing, which may include handrails in bathrooms and showers, wheelchair-accessible kitchens, and other features that cater to their limitations.
Finding housing with even basic accessibility features can be difficult, if not impossible or unaffordable, for people who use mobility devices. As a result, accessible housing for the disabled is commonly more expensive due to these accommodations and requirements.
Does The SSA Offer Disability Housing Assistance?
Numerous people become homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless while their disability claim is being processed. With this in mind, one might inquire whether the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability housing assistance to its beneficiaries.
Regardless of the type of disability benefits you receive, the agency does not provide housing or rent assistance. Fortunately, the federal government offers housing assistance programs.
Programs That Provide Affordable Housing to Disabled Americans
Numerous federal, state, and local housing programs can assist you in locating and affording a home, adapting an existing home to accommodate disabilities, or developing the skills necessary to live independently. Each program has its own set of criteria for eligibility and application.
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development
Also known as Supportive Housing for Persons With Disabilities, Section 8 housing vouchers are administered by HUD. Section 811 enables individuals with disabilities to live independently in their communities by subsidizing rental housing opportunities that include appropriate supportive services.
It entails residents paying a portion of their rent, which is typically 30%. Local public housing authorities (PHAs) determine who receives priority for vouchers, but regardless of your location, the wait time can be long and complex.
National Housing Trust Fund
The National Housing Trust Fund helps non-elderly and low-income destitute families maintain decent housing. It is a continuous fund with a 10% allocation for rental housing. Housing assistance frequently includes assistance with other basic expenses, such as utilities, provided by the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
The majority of funds are used to maintain rental properties, but 10% are used to assist the poor, non-elderly, disabled, and first-time home buyers. The funds are distributed by the states through for-profit and not-for-profit organizations that adhere to the ACT's guidelines.
Takeaway
Individuals with disabilities prefer to live in their communities rather than in institutional settings such as care homes or mental health facilities, which are more isolating. However, housing that is safe, stable, and affordable continues to be out of reach for millions of disabled people and their families, compromising their access to health care.
Bear in mind that you are also protected under the Federal Fair Housing Act if you receive SSDI or SSI benefits. This means that you cannot be denied the opportunity to rent or buy property on the basis of your disability, regardless of whether you reside in private or public housing.
Aside from housing, disabled individuals can also receive more assistance from the SSA. Disability Help can walk you through the process of filing for disability benefits!
