This toolkit has information about the State Disability Assistance Program (SDA) – how to apply and who is eligible.
For general information about SDA, read the Articles. Read the Common Questions if you have a specific question. If you want to request a hearing from MDHHS or learn more about the kind of denial or termination notice you received, use the Forms link for help preparing the forms you will need and to access other helpful information.
You'll find links to legal aid offices and lawyer referral services under Find A Lawyer. If there is a Self-Help Center in your area you can get more help there. If you need something other than legal help, look in Community Services. If you need a fee waiver, an interpreter, a court to accommodate your disability, or more information about going to court, visit Going to Court.
Common Questions
The State Disability Assistance Program (SDA) provides cash assistance. You could be eligible if you are an adult with a disability. You may also be eligible if you are 65 or older or if you take care of a person with a disability. To learn more, read An Overview of the State Disability Assistance Program (SDA).
Yes, you could qualify even if you do not have a disability. Many people who get SDA are eligible because they are an adult with a disability. You may also be eligible if you are 65 or older, or if you take care of a person with a disability.
If you would like to apply for SDA based on age, you might also consider applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on age. SSI is a benefit paid by the Social Security Administration.
If you are the caretaker of a person with a disability who lives with you, you may be eligible for SDA. The work you do must be medically required for at least 90 days. The work could include:
• Food shopping
• Meal preparation
• Laundry
• Light cleaning
• Bathing
• Dressing
• Help with medication
The person you are caring for does not have to be related to you, but you must live together. You and the person you are caring for can receive SDA at the same time.
Some immigrants can get SDA. In order to be eligible for SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant. Someone who is not a U.S. citizen should never indicate that they are a U.S. citizen.
Generally, all non-citizen children with permanent resident status (green cards) or VAWA are eligible for SDA. Non-citizen adults who have permanent resident status or VAWA for five years or more are also eligible. Asylees and refugees are also eligible for SDA. Some other categories of immigrants are also eligible, including certified victims of human trafficking and Cuban/Haitian entrants.
Immigrants who do not fall in one of the eligibility categories cannot get SDA. People who refuse to share their immigration status are also not eligible.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) cannot require Social Security numbers or immigration documents from individuals who are not applying for benefits. For example, if a parent is applying for benefits on behalf of their child but not themselves, MDHHS cannot require proof of citizenship from the parent.
If you have questions about SDA for immigrants, you may want to speak with someone at your local MDHHS office. Your local legal services office may also be able to help you. You can use the Guide to Legal Help to see if you qualify for free legal advice from your local legal services office. Even if they are not able to represent you, they could still offer you advice and other help.
If you speak limited English, MDHHS must provide you with an interpreter. Be sure to tell MDHHS that you need an interpreter or need help understanding documents in English. You have a right to bring your own interpreter if you prefer. The application is available in different languages. You can apply online and have someone help you.