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Social Security Disability Housing Assistance

Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC April 19, 2023

In the past couple of years, housing instability seems at an all-time high. With rents rising, people on fixed incomes increasingly seek federal support to remain in their homes. With these changes, many ask whether Social Security disability provides housing assistance.

This is a valid question because many people become unhoused because of a disability while waiting for benefits to begin. Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Social Security Administration does not provide this assistance. However, other federal programs may offer relief.

Government Housing Assistance

Paying housing expenses grew more difficult for many over the past couple of years. Luckily, options for government support grew in response Covid-19. Here are some programs to investigate:

  • The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers the most notable program. It is the Section 8 housing voucher program. Unfortunately, the waiting list for this program is long. And families with children get favorable consideration over others in this program.

  • Local Public Housing Authorities (PHA) often set the rules for their community, which sometimes provides more support for those on disability, regardless of family status. You should check with them directly to learn more about their programs.

  • Two other HUD voucher programs offer assistance for “certain developments” and “designated housing”.

Is the need for more HUD housing being addressed?

Again, the answer is a bit unfortunate. Though nothing happens quickly, the government continues to work on increasing affordable housing options. Your best approach is to be in close contact with your local PHA. They keep abreast of housing availability.

A related program is Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities. This program assists the disabled by subsidizing development of affordable rental property and by working directly with state housing agencies to provide rental assistance to those who qualify for help.

Can a Lawyer Help Me Find Housing?

Our law office can help you to get approved for Social Security disability benefits, if you’ve encountered obstacles. The critical first step to finding government assistance for housing is approval of this support. Then you must work within the system to find housing, once approved for SSD benefits. Contact us today to learn more, online or call.