Disability Benefit Options for Iowa Residents

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is a federal program providing monthly benefits to Iowa residents who:

• Have a qualifying disability that prevents them from working.
• Have worked and paid Social Security taxes (FICA) long enough to earn sufficient work credits.
• Meet the SSA’s definition of disability, meaning the condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
  

2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is available to Iowa residents with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Eligibility is based on:

• Financial need (low income and limited assets).
• Disability status, following the same medical criteria as SSDI.
• SSI also provides Medicaid coverage in Iowa, giving recipients access to healthcare services.

3. Medicaid and Medicare

• Medicaid is available to SSI recipients automatically in Iowa.
• Medicare is typically available to SSDI recipients after a 24-month waiting period.
• Iowa residents may also qualify for Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through Medicaid waivers.

4. State Resources and Programs

In addition to federal programs, Iowa offers:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Services, helping individuals with disabilities return to work.
• Disability Rights Iowa, offering advocacy services to protect the rights of disabled individuals.