Disabilities take a major toll on all areas of your life. If you’re unable to work, you may struggle to make ends meet. Federal disability benefits like Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can make a big difference in your ability to get by. But did you know these aren’t the only sources of disability benefits?
If you’re a Michigan resident, you might be eligible for additional monthly cash benefits through the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program. These benefits are on top of any other disability benefits you already receive.
Who’s eligible?
To qualify, your income and assets must not exceed a certain level. You must also be disabled, a caretaker for a disabled person, or age 65 or older.
Applicants are considered disabled if they:
- Receive SSD, SSI or certain other benefits and services due to a disability
- Live in a nursing home or other special living arrangement facility
- Have been diagnosed with AIDs
- Obtain a medical certification that you’re unable to work for at least 90 days because of a physical or mental disability
You might also be able to get SDA benefits if you’re a live-in caretaker for a person with disabilities. You don’t have to be related to the disabled person, and you don’t have to be medically trained. However, you must show that your help is medically necessary for at least 90 days.
How much can you get?
So how much money can you expect to reveive from this program? State Disability Assistance is not designed to provide a full means of support. Typically, recipients get a few hundred dollars per month. When you’re unable to work due to a disability, however, every dollar counts.
How do you apply?
You can easily apply for SDA benefits online. By law, the state must give you a decision within 60 days, making it a quick process for those in desperate need of extra funds. If your application is denied, you can appeal to an administrative law judge.
Getting the most out of your benefits
The “alphabet soup” of disability benefits – SSD, SSI and SDA – can be confusing. Each program has its own eligibility and procedural requirements. Your best bet for getting the benefits you deserve is to speak with a qualified disability attorney.