HOW DO I APPLY FOR…

How do I file for Social Security (What is SSI vs. SSDI)?

This link describes the steps to take to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits. Please call your local NAMI affiliate or our office at 800-370-9085 if you need additional help.

Organizations that represent people applying for social security disability insurance (SSDI) include:
Most of the legal aid agencies provide assistance on a sliding scale and you can locate the agency to contact here.

Allsup is a nationwide provider of specialized services for those with disabilities, including Social Security Disability Insurance representation and Medicare plan selection services. Allsup experts have helped more than 120,000 people receive SSDI and Medicare benefits. The company is headquartered in Belleville, Ill., and has approximately 600 employees located around the country. For more information, call (800) 279-4357, ext. 2020. Ask about their fee schedule.

Two other national groups have referral lists of representatives who can help you with Social Security claims or appeals:  The National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR) at 1-800-747-6131, or the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR) , at 1-800-431-2804.

The Social Security and Disability Resource Center website provides answers to questions concerning how to apply for disability, how to appeal a claim in the event of a denial, how to navigate the federal system, and how to avoid certain mistakes that are commonly made by applicants filing for either SSD (social security disability) or SSI (supplemental security income).

Jon Rodis, President-MA Chapter of the National Marfan Foundation, Chair-Physicians Awareness Committee, National Disability Advocate, Charges No Fee for his services, JR Website: www.jrmarfan58.com

How do I Apply for Disability Benefits for Children under Age 18?

Social Security Online explains the steps involved in applying for disability benefits for children. An application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and a Child Disability Report are required. The Child Disability Starter Kit answers questions about applying for SSI for children and includes a worksheet that can help you gather the information you need to apply.

What Happens to My SSI When I Turn 18 (PDF)

Where can I find information about what my insurance/Medicaid/Medicare benefits will cover?

For these and other Medicaid and Medicare concerns, you may also contact the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) online, or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).  Many families and individuals have found additional Medicare and Social Security assistance through the Medicare Rights Center: Your Guide through the Medicare Maze, which provides their MRC Consumer Hotline at 1-800-333-4114 (Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm, EST).

How do I apply for MassHealth (Medicaid in Massachusetts)?

This brochure briefly explains what MassHealth is, what it offers, who can get it, and how to apply.  It also describes other available health-care programs. Please call your local affiliate or our office if you need additional help. This enrollment process can take up to 60 days or more. El folleto en Español

For questions about MassHealth as well as all other health insurance you can contact Health Care For All at 1-800-272-4232.

How do I apply for Food Stamps?

The new name of the Food Stamp program is SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Elders and people with disablities do not have to go to DTA office for food stamps. Business can be done via phone, fax or internet. For SNAP application, call DTA, (800) 249-2007
SNAP Hotline: 866-950-3663
SNAP recipient service line: 1-800-445-6604
(on line application available)
To locate an office near you click DTA Offices

Frequently Asked Questions for Massachusetts Residents with Disabilities