If you are receiving government assistance for a disability, it could be possible to get some extra benefits. As long as you prove that you are receiving disability benefits, some services and products may be accessible to you for free!
For instance, some programs can provide you with free passes to your favorite national park or a free furnace for those cold winter months. Keep reading to learn more about SSDI and some related perks of participating in the program.
What Is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that gives out monthly financial benefits to people who cannot work because of a serious medical condition.
SSDI is run by the Social Security Administration. It is funded through payroll taxes. That means most workers pay into the system while they are working. If they later become disabled, they may qualify for benefits.
SSDI is not the same as welfare. It is based on your work history. To qualify, you must have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.
In simple terms:
- You work and pay into Social Security.
- You become disabled and cannot work.
- If you meet the rules, you may receive monthly payments.
These payments help cover basic living costs like rent, food, and utilities.
About Free National Parks Passes
People who have a permanent disability can apply for the America the Beautiful Access Pass. The United States is home to thousands of national parks, forests, and destinations, and the Access Pass could get you free or discounted entries.
- Free entry to national parks and many federal recreation sites
- Discounts on some camping and amenity fees
You don’t automatically get the pass just for getting SSDI. However, your SSDI award letter is accepted as proof of disability when applying for the pass. So if you qualify, you can get this free pass and use it at more than 2,000 federal sites
About Free or Discounted Home Appliances
In some cases people with disabilities can get free or low-cost home appliances or similar help. This perk is usually offered through special programs, community agencies, or state/local assistance; it’s not a nationwide automatic benefit just for being disabled.
Weatherization & Home Efficiency Programs
There are federal programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and LIHEAP that help low-income households (often people with disabilities are prioritized) make their homes more energy-efficient.
- These programs can replace old, inefficient appliances like refrigerators and freezers with newer, energy-efficient models at no cost to you.
- They also do things like improve insulation, fix heating and cooling systems, and reduce energy bills.
- Eligibility usually depends on income and sometimes age or disability status, and you have to apply through your state or local agency
So, it’s important to understand these programs don’t advertise “free appliances for disabilities,” but they can provide free appliance upgrades as part of making your home safer and more efficient.
There are local charities and nonprofit organizations that collect donated appliances and give them to people in need, including:
- Furniture banks or donation centers that sometimes include appliances like fridges, washers, dryers, etc.
- Religious and community groups (like the Salvation Army) that help low-income residents with appliances through vouchers or direct donations.
These are not guaranteed, and the availability depends on your area.
About Free or Discounted Medical Equipment
If you are an SSDI recipient, you can automatically qualify to receive Medicare after 24 months of SSDI payments. Plus, depending on how much money you make (if any), you could also qualify for Medicaid, which is another type of free or low-cost health insurance plan.
Many centers for independent living and assistive technology programs across the U.S. provide free or low-cost equipment and devices that help people with disabilities live more independently. These often include:
- Wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, lifts, and bathroom safety equipment
- Telecommunications equipment (special phones, communication devices)
- Devices to help with daily living tasks at home
There is a possibility that your health care plan gives you an over-the-counter benefit. Certain programs allow qualifying members to order a large variety of health products at no charge and get the items delivered to their homes.
About Free Career Training
If you are between 18 and 64 and get SSDI, you can join the Ticket to Work program. This is a free, voluntary program that helps in a variety of career-related ways, such as:
- Finding job training and career counseling
- Getting employed or keeping a job
- Learning how work might affect your benefits
It connects you with service providers who can help you plan for work and success
