SSA is the basic Social Security Benefit. People who qualify for this program have paid into the system by earning enough work credits through their lifetime and have reach full retirement age. People may opt to draw on their SSA benefit as early as 62, but may receive a reduced benefit.
Social Security Disability, or SSD, is similar to the SSA benefit in that a person must pay into the system to earn enough work credits. However, due to a long term disability, the person is unable to continue to work. In order to obtain SSD a person must apply for the benefit through Social Security. Many people are declined the first time they request SSD and must appeal the decision. The reason for this is to prevent fraud and, although it is not required, consulting an attorney will improve the appeal success and timeliness.
SSI is considered Supplemental Security Income. This program is for people who are age 65 or older or who have not worked 40 quarters but due to disability are unable to work. To apply for this program, a person must contact Social Security. It is important to note that unlike SSA and SSD, where a person has paid into the program and the benefit is an entitlement, SSI is a program that has income and resource eligibilities and is not an entitlement. Failure to stay within the eligibility requirement will result in a reduction or termination from the program. Social Security Web Site
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The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly referred to as Section 8, offers a similar subsidy as the above mentioned subsidized housing complexes. However, a person is issued a Housing Choice Voucher under this program. That person must find a landlord in the community or a housing complex which is willing to accept the voucher. When a person with the Housing Choice Voucher wishes to move, they can take the voucher, and therefore the subsidy, with them.
For more information on either of these programs, contact the Cumberland County Housing and Redevelopment Authority or the Cumberland Link CC Housing and Redevelopment Authority
If a person has more needs, such as assistance with bathing, laundry due to incontinence issues or meal preparations, there may be resources available to help off-set the costs associated with these services. Essentially, there are three programs which may assist a person with such needs:For those 60 years of age or older, Cumberland County Aging and Community Services can provide Options services to meet needs. People 18 to 59 years old can obtain services through HSDF, Human Services Development Fund. United Cerebral Palsy assists with the administration of the HSDF program which often has a waiting list for services. The third possibility for getting services mentioned above are called Waiver programs. There are a number of Waiver programs designed for various consumers who require Nursing Home Level of Care but opt to remain in the community. Contact the Link for more information on the various Waiver Programs.