A disability can happen to you or your loved ones when you least expect it and at any age. It could be from an accident, an illness, or depression--which can also be debilitating. Every state in the U.S. has provisions--knowing exactly where to go for assistance can be a blessing.
If you find yourself disabled temporarily or for the long term, emergency financial assistance is available to help you get back on your feet.
Federal Government
The federal government has organizations in place in each state to help you get emergency food stamps, heating and electric financial assistance, Medicaid and emergency housing. Apply as soon as possible, either online, by phone or with a social worker.
Non-Profit Organizations
NeedyMeds is a 501(3)(c) non-profit who can help you if you are unable to afford medication or health care costs. The information at NeedyMeds is available anonymously and free of charge.
According to the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF), they provide "professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life-threatening and debilitating illnesses." PAF acts as a mediator to make sure your financial stability is preserved during your disability.
Debt Management
Suze Orman, personal financial expert, best-selling author and television show host, suggests you register at Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) if you need assistance to get out of high levels of debt. Being disabled, you have the choice to speak with a financial planner by phone, directly online or in person. This allows to you still pay all of your bills in one small payment each month, without lowering your FICO score. There are free or sliding-scale fee classes available also for financial management. CCCS is a non-profit organization and a division of Money Management International (MMI), another non-profit. CCCS works for you, not your creditors, to help you get your life back.
Long-Term Disability Programs
After you apply for emergency disability assistance, you may want to sign up for long-term disability, if it applies to you. This would be Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To receive these payments, you must have been disabled for at least five months with your first payment arriving on your sixth month. You'll be eligible for Medicare after one year of disability payments.
Tips and Warnings
Avoid online websites that promise you financial assistance for disabilities (or for any reason) for a fee. These are scams.
Report people to the police who come to your door or call you by phone to get information from you, such as about your home or bank information. These are also scams.
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