Homeless individuals have the same right to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits as everyone else. SSI benefits can help disabled children and adults with limited resources. It is a needs based program, which means those on the verge of homelessness may find financial relief through the help of these benefits.
Homeless people generally have an increased likelihood of suffering from a disability, either mental or physical. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, in excess of one fifth of homeless people have severe mental health issues.
SSI Benefits for the Homeless
While being homeless may make it harder to receive disability benefits due to lack of an address and income, this does not mean homeless people should not apply for homeless SSI benefits.
If you do not have a physical address, you could have paperwork mailed to a friend or relative. Once obtained, benefits could be sent to a Direct Express debit bank card or deposited into a personal bank account.
It is important to note that living in a public institution like a shelter, treatment facility or correctional facility may cause you to be ineligible to receive SSI benefits. Contact a knowledgeable disability benefits lawyer to find out what requirements you must meet before applying for benefits.
A perk of receiving SSI benefits means that recipients may be eligible for Medicaid healthcare that could help you with your disabilities. If you are homeless and do not receive SSI benefits, you may only be eligible for a bare bones Medicare program that does not meet their medical needs.
Other SSI recipient benefits may include housing support and eligibility for enrollment in additional social programs.
The challenge of not having an address, filling out documents, visiting a Social Security office and making appointments may seem overwhelming. However, an Social Security Disability benefits lawyer in Phoenix can help you file for disability benefits and help you if your claim has been denied.
Contact Dayes Law Firm PC today for a free consultation by calling 1-800-503-2000.