Can I Receive Social Security Disability Benefits If I Am Homeless?

Yes. Your housing status has no impact on your Social Security disability eligibility. Whether you are currently living in a homeless shelter, living with a friend or relative, or living on the streets, you are absolutely still eligible to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if you qualify.

You Are Not Alone

A significant percentage of the homeless population is disabled. Having a disability may make it difficult or impossible to work and, without an income, it can be difficult to have consistent housing. The Social Security disability benefits system is in place to help you if you can’t work because of a disability and if you cannot afford basic needs like shelter, food, and clothing.

Don’t Let Your Homelessness Prevent You From Applying for Benefits

Sadly, being homeless often serves as a barrier to successfully apply for disability benefits. Faced with long waiting periods, a trying application process, limited access to medical care, and other stumbling blocks, many homeless or sheltered people do not receive the benefits they so desperately need.

However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) must consider your application and, if you meet the Social Security disability eligibility requirements, the SSA must approve your application. Then, the SSA should work with you to determine how best to get your benefits to you if you qualify.

The first step is to file a complete application with the SSA online or at your local office. The SSA may also be able to provide you with information about local housing resources and support.

Our board-certified Social Security disability lawyers believe that everyone—regardless of their housing status—has the right to apply for Social Security disability benefits. If you are disabled and homeless, we encourage you to contact us via this website or by phone for more information. We will work hard to make sure that your rights are protected and that you get the benefits you deserve.