What Other Benefits Can I Get with SSDI?
If you've been approved for
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you're already receiving monthly income because the government agrees you're unable to work due to a disability. But SSDI isn’t the only benefit available to you.
There are
several other programs and resources that SSDI recipients may qualify for — ranging from
healthcare to food assistance,
housing support, and even
benefits for family members.
In this post, we’ll break down all the
additional benefits you may be eligible for with SSDI — and how to access them.
1.
Medicare Coverage
After receiving SSDI benefits for
24 months, you're automatically enrolled in
Medicare, even if you're under age 65.
Medicare includes:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance) – Free for most
- Part B (Medical Insurance) – Monthly premium
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) – Optional
You don’t need to apply separately — SSA will contact you when you're eligible.
Visit
fns.usda.gov/snap to apply or check your state’s program.
2.
Housing Assistance
While SSDI itself doesn't offer housing help, being on SSDI can qualify you for:
- Section 8 vouchers
- Public housing
- Emergency rental assistance
Contact your local housing authority and let them know you're on SSDI — it often moves you up the priority list.
3.
Utility Assistance (LIHEAP)
The
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with:
- Utility bills
- Heating and cooling
- Energy crises
Being on SSDI makes you more likely to qualify, especially if you're low-income or elderly.
Visit
liheapch.acf.hhs.gov to learn more.
4.
Benefits for Family Members
If you’re receiving SSDI, certain family members may be able to receive
monthly dependent benefits, including:
- Spouse (age 62+ or caring for your child under 16)
- Children under 18 (or 19 in certain circumstances)
- Disabled adult children
These benefits can
add up to 50% of your SSDI benefit — and don’t reduce your own payment.
5.
Tax Relief
If SSDI is your only income (or your income is low), you may not owe federal taxes.
You may also be eligible for:
- Property tax exemptions (state-specific)
Check with a tax preparer who understands disability income.
6.
Transportation & Discount Programs
Many SSDI recipients qualify for:
- Public transportation discounts
- Reduced or free paratransit services
- Amtrak discounts
- State ID fee waivers or reduced vehicle registration
Check your
local or state government websites for benefits in your area.
7.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
If you're considering returning to work, you may be eligible for free
vocational rehab programs to help you retrain or get back into the workforce — without risking your SSDI right away.
Many states also offer:
- Job placement assistance
- Counseling and education
- Trial Work Periods (through SSA)
8.
State-Specific Programs
States often offer additional benefits to SSDI recipients, such as:
- Prescription assistance
- Transportation services
- Phone or internet subsidies
- Medicaid “buy-in” programs
Tip: Search “[your state] disability benefits” to uncover local resources.
Bonus:
SSI Benefits (If You Have Low Assets)
You may also qualify for
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
in addition to SSDI if your income and assets are very low. This can increase your monthly income and often includes automatic Medicaid enrollment.
We Can Help You Maximize Your Disability Benefits
At
Crossroads Disability, we help clients
not only get approved for SSDI — but also understand what
other benefits they can receive once they win.
Need help applying or appealing a denial?
Let’s talk. We help clients across the U.S. fight for what they deserve.
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Contact Us Today
✅ Free consultation
✅ No fee unless we win
✅ Apply or appeal SSDI now
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