State-Specific Disability Benefits: Lesser-Known Help Beyond SSDI and SSI

For individuals living with disabilities, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are often the first sources of financial assistance that come to mind. However, many people are unaware that state-specific programs can provide additional support while waiting for approval, in addition to or instead of federal benefits. If you live in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, or Louisiana, American Disability Action Group can help you identify state-based disability programs that may help with income, healthcare, employment support, and more.

Arkansas: Medicaid for the Disabled & State Assistance Programs

In Arkansas, individuals with disabilities who do not qualify for SSDI or SSI may still receive assistance through the Arkansas Medicaid program. This includes ARChoices, a program providing in-home care and personal assistance for disabled individuals who need long-term support. Additionally, the Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) program offers employment assistance, vocational training, and support for disabled individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

Oklahoma: State Supplemental Payments & SoonerCare

Oklahoma provides State Supplemental Payments (SSP) to certain disabled individuals who receive SSI but need additional financial support. The SoonerCare Medicaid program is another key resource, offering comprehensive healthcare coverage for those with disabilities who have limited income. For individuals seeking employment, the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides job training and placement assistance for disabled residents.

Mississippi: Disability Assistance & Healthcare Support

Mississippi offers state-based support for disabled individuals through the Mississippi Disability Assistance Program, which helps those who cannot work due to a disability but do not yet qualify for SSDI. The state’s Medicaid Waiver Programs also provide in-home care, medical assistance, and support services to individuals with physical or developmental disabilities. Additionally, the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) offers employment services and financial aid for assistive devices like wheelchairs and hearing aids.

Tennessee: Families First & CoverTN

Tennessee offers Families First, the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, which provides cash assistance to disabled individuals with low income. Another key resource is CoverTN, a state-backed health insurance program designed for uninsured residents, including individuals with disabilities. For those seeking job training or employment services, Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation Services can help individuals return to work despite their disabilities.

Texas: Workforce Assistance & Medicaid Programs

In Texas, individuals with disabilities may qualify for short-term financial assistance through the state’s Workforce Solutions program, which helps those who are unable to work due to disability find alternative job opportunities or retraining programs. Additionally, Texas Medicaid’s STAR+PLUS program offers long-term care services, such as personal care, home modifications, and transportation assistance. For veterans with disabilities, Texas also provides state-based financial assistance and healthcare programs beyond federal VA benefits.

Louisiana: FITAP & Medicaid Waivers

Louisiana provides Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) benefits to individuals who meet certain income and disability-related requirements. The state’s Medicaid Long-Term Care Waivers offer home-based and community-based services for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to receive necessary medical care without entering a nursing home. Additionally, the Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) program offers employment support and disability accommodations for those returning to work.

Why State-Based Programs Matter

Many disabled individuals in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana struggle financially while waiting for SSDI or SSI approval. Others may not qualify for federal disability benefits at all. State-specific programs can help fill the gaps, providing medical assistance, cash benefits, and job support services.

Seek Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one is struggling to make ends meet due to a disability, it’s important to explore all available options, including state-based programs that go beyond federal SSDI and SSI benefits. Our experienced Arkansas and Nationwide Social Security Disability Attorneys at American Disability Action Group can help determine your eligibility and guide you through the application process for these often-overlooked sources of assistance.

Source:

dws.arkansas.gov/ar-rehabilitation-services/