Federal and State Assistance
The Social SecurityA federal program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. Most Social Security benefits are based on taxes that you paid on your wages while working. Administration offers two programs for people with disabilities: Social Security DisabilityAny condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them. Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security IncomeA monthly benefit paid by Social Security to people with limited income who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older. These are not the same as Social Security retirement or disability benefits. (SSI).
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): If you are eligible for Social Security, but are not yet 65 years old, and you meet certain health condition requirements, you may be eligible for SSDI. Benefits are paid out monthly and the amount depends on how many years you paid Social Security taxes. After you have received SSDI benefits for two years, you will be enrolled in Medicare Part ACovers hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. and Part BCovers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services..
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If you meet certain health condition requirements and your income is below a certain level, you may be eligible to receive SSI, a monthly cash payment to help you pay for basics like food, clothing, and housing.
To apply for SSDI or learn more about SSI, you can talk to the Benefits Coordinator at your local IHS or Tribal clinic, or you can visit your local Social Security Administration office. Click the link or call (800) 772-1213 to find the nearest office.
If you have a disability and have dependent children or grandchildren, and don’t qualify for other forms of state financial assistance, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you may qualify for assistance from the General Assistance for Disabled Adults and Unrelated Children program. To learn more about this program and other services, locate your Family Community Resource Center or call the New Mexico Human Services Department at (800) 432-6217.
Health Insurance Options
If you have a disabilityAny condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them., you may qualify for MedicaidA joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources., a state and federal program that provides free or low-cost health insuranceA type of insurance that pays for some or all of your medical expenses.
. If you are over 65, you may also qualify for MedicareThe federal health insurance program for people who are age 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant).. If you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, this is called dual eligibility. To learn more, call the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department about your needs at (800) 432-2080 or TTY (505) 476-4937.