By Dianne Sunderman
Did you know that public assistance benefits are for everyone who is eligible? If you meet the requirements, it could make your life easier, healthier and happier! Programs include:
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
This program is for people who have a qualifying disability, have worked and paid into the Social Security system, or whose parents have worked. If this applies to your situation, you might be eligible for additional income.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
This is for people who have qualifying disabilities but are not able to support themselves with income earned from working. If you are over 18 and unable to work due to your disability, you might be eligible for additional income to help your individual budget.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is a financial needs-based program for anyone who is having trouble getting enough groceries every month. Benefits are for any size household. It is based on how much money is coming into the home and how much is going out for living expenses.
Medicaid
This form of health insurance is for people with a qualifying disability and a financial need. This state health insurance can be used as basic health coverage or in conjunction with private or Medicare health insurance.
Medicare
This form of health insurance comes from Social Security. If you have been receiving SSDI income for more than 24 months, you are eligible for the red, white, and blue basic Medicare plan. This can be used as additional health insurance coverage with your private insurance or Medicaid.
HEAP and PIPP
These are energy assistance programs from Duke Energy that can help people who are below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines lower their gas or electric bills. You can call 1-800-282-0880 to learn more.
The HCDDS Benefits Team is available to help you! Contact Benefits Manager Dianne Sunderman to learn more, (513) 559-6739 or dianne.sunderman@hamiltondds.org.
