Finding safe, accessible, and affordable housing is tough enough as it is. But for individuals with disabilities—especially those in crisis—securing the right living environment can feel like an uphill battle. 

That’s where disability housing assistance comes in. These programs help ensure that youth and adults with disabilities have a stable, supportive place to call home, whether that means accessible modifications, financial aid, or specialized housing services.

If you or a loved one is navigating the world of disability housing assistance, you’re not alone. Let’s break it all down—from who qualifies under the Fair Housing Act to how you can apply for assistance.

What is Considered a Disability Under the Fair Housing Act?

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) was designed to protect people from discrimination when renting, buying, or securing housing assistance. But what exactly qualifies as a disability under this law?

According to the FHA, a person is considered disabled if they have:

• A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (walking, talking, seeing, hearing, learning, etc.)
• A history of such an impairment (e.g., someone in recovery from a disabling condition)
• A perception of having a disability, even if they do not actually have one

Some common examples of disabilities covered under the FHA include:

• Mobility impairments (requiring wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices)
• Visual and hearing impairments
• Intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Mental health conditions (such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia)
• Chronic illnesses (such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, or HIV/AIDS)

Under the law, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. This means allowing service animals in pet-free housing, adjusting lease policies, or permitting housing modifications for disability needs.

What is Housing Modification for Disability?

Not all homes are designed with accessibility in mind, but that shouldn’t stop individuals with disabilities from living safely and independently. Housing modifications for disability are changes made to a home or apartment to improve accessibility and quality of life.

Common housing modifications include:

• Ramps and wheelchair-accessible entryways
• Grab bars and handrails in bathrooms and hallways
• Lowered countertops and accessible kitchen appliances
• Widened doorways for wheelchairs or walkers
• Voice-activated or smart-home technology for individuals with limited mobility
• Strobe-light fire alarms for those with hearing impairments

Who Pays for Housing Modifications?

Housing modifications can be funded through several programs, including:

• Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
• State Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Fair Housing Act-mandated accommodations (landlords may be required to permit modifications)
• Nonprofit organizations that provide grants for accessibility modifications

If you or a loved one needs housing modifications for disability, start by checking with local housing authorities, disability advocacy groups, or Medicaid services for available funding.

How Do I Apply for Disability Housing Assistance?

Applying for disability housing assistance can feel overwhelming, but the process always starts with one key step: contacting the individual’s DDA Case Manager.

Step 1: Contact the DDA Case Manager

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) assigns case managers to help individuals with disabilities access essential services. Whether you’re looking for emergency housing, long-term supportive housing, or accessibility modifications, the case manager is the person who will start the process.

Step 2: Case Manager Referral

All referrals for disability housing assistance must go through the case manager. Unfortunately, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is not able to accept referrals directly—they must come from the Regional DDA Resource Management Team.

Step 3: Explore Housing Assistance Options

Depending on your needs, the case manager may refer you to one or more of the following programs:

• HUD’s Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities – Provides subsidized rental housing with supportive services.
• Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) – Offers rental assistance to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.
• Public Housing Programs – Local housing authorities provide accessible and affordable housing options.
• Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) – Combines housing assistance with mental health and disability support services.
• Emergency Housing Assistance – Helps individuals in crisis find temporary or emergency housing.

Step 4: Submit Necessary Documentation

When applying for disability housing assistance, be prepared to provide:

• Proof of disability (doctor’s note, medical records, or SSI/SSDI verification)
• Proof of income (if applying for income-based housing assistance)
• Housing history and needs assessment
• Any additional documentation requested by the DDA or local housing authorities

Once the referral is submitted, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to secure disability housing assistance, depending on availability and funding. Patience is key, but consistent follow-ups with the case manager can help keep things moving.

Additional Resources for Disability Housing Assistance

Navigating the housing system can be tricky, but there are plenty of organizations that specialize in helping individuals with disabilities secure safe and stable housing. Here are some useful resources:

• National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) – Provides advocacy and legal support for individuals facing housing discrimination.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Offers federal assistance programs like Section 8 and Section 811.
• The Arc – Supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in finding housing assistance.
• National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) – Provides research and policy updates on disability housing assistance.
• Easter Seals – Helps connect people with disabilities to housing, employment, and community resources.

If you or a loved one is struggling to find accessible housing, reach out to these organizations or speak with a case manager to explore all available options.

Final Thoughts on Disability Housing Assistance

Having a safe and accessible place to live is a fundamental right—not a privilege. 

Disability housing assistance exists to ensure that youth and adults with disabilities can find secure, affordable, and supportive housing options, no matter their circumstances.

If you or someone you know needs help, remember:

• The first step is contacting the individual’s DDA Case Manager.
• There are multiple housing assistance programs available, from Section 811 to emergency housing services.
• Housing modifications can be funded through Medicaid waivers, nonprofit grants, and state disability programs.
• Patience and persistence are key when applying for assistance—resources exist, but wait times can vary.

At the end of the day, disability housing assistance is about more than just four walls and a roof—it’s about dignity, independence, and creating a space where individuals with disabilities can truly thrive.