Disability Resources Resources in District of Columbia
Last updated September 10, 2026
Washington, DC residents living with a disability can access a range of federal and District-administered programs covering income support, healthcare, housing, and daily living assistance. Because DC functions as both a city and a state, many programs are administered directly by the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) and the DC Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), making it somewhat easier to navigate than in states with county-level variation.
If you are not sure where to start, calling or texting 2-1-1 (operated in DC as a United Way community resource line) connects you with a trained navigator who can screen you for dozens of programs in a single conversation. You can also reach DC DHS directly to ask about disability-related cash assistance, Medicaid, and supportive services. For older adults with disabilities, the DC Office on Aging administers local aging and disability services and can be located through the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Federal disability benefits such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are administered by the Social Security Administration and are available to eligible DC residents regardless of District budget cycles. Many DC residents qualify for both a federal program and a District-level supplement or wraparound service, so it is worth applying to multiple programs at once with the help of a case manager or benefits counselor.
Key programs in District of Columbia
DC Medicaid & DC HealthCare Alliance (DC Department of Health Care Finance)
Provides free or low-cost health coverage for DC residents with disabilities, including long-term services and supports, personal care aide services, home- and community-based waiver programs, behavioral health, and durable medical equipment.
How to access: Apply online at dchealthlink.com, in person at a DC DHS Service Center, or by calling DC Medicaid at (202) 727-5355. Ask specifically about the Elderly and Persons with Physical Disabilities (EPD) Waiver if you need home-based long-term care.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) & Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) — Social Security Administration
SSI provides monthly cash payments to DC residents with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSDI provides benefits based on your work history if you have a qualifying disability. Both can open doors to Medicaid and other assistance.
How to access: Apply online at ssa.gov, call the SSA national line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit the DC-area SSA field office. Free benefits counseling for DC residents is available through the DC Center for Independent Living and other community partners—ask 2-1-1 for a referral.
DC Department on Disability Services (DDS) — Developmental Disabilities & Vocational Rehabilitation
DDS has two main divisions: the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides supports and services for DC residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities; the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) provides vocational rehabilitation, job training, and employment supports for working-age adults with disabilities.
How to access: Contact DDS at (202) 730-1700 or visit dds.dc.gov. For vocational rehabilitation specifically, ask for RSA intake. Waitlists may apply for DDA waiver services; applying early is strongly encouraged.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — DC Department of Human Services
Monthly electronic food benefits for eligible DC residents with disabilities and low incomes. People receiving SSI often qualify automatically, and DC has simplified the application process for individuals with disabilities.
How to access: Apply online at dhs.dc.gov, call DC DHS at (202) 727-5355, or visit a DC DHS Service Center. Expedited benefits may be available within days if your income and resources are very low.
HUD-Assisted Housing & DC Housing Authority (DCHA) — Disability Preference Programs
DC residents with disabilities may qualify for HCV (Section 8) vouchers with a disability preference, accessible public housing units, or HUD-funded permanent supportive housing through DC's Continuum of Care. The DC Housing Authority administers local voucher and public housing programs.
How to access: Contact DCHA at (202) 535-1000 or dcha.dc.gov to inquire about current waitlist status and disability accommodations. For CoC-funded supportive housing, contact the DC Department of Human Services Shelter Hotline or call 2-1-1 for a referral to a housing specialist.
Disability Resources resources for District of Columbia
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
NationwideFederal programs and resources supporting people with disabilities and older adults.
Social Security Disability (SSA)
NationwideApply for and manage Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI benefits.
The Arc
NationwideAdvocacy and local chapter services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Other resources in District of Columbia
- Housing Assistance in District of Columbia
- Food Assistance in District of Columbia
- Utility Assistance in District of Columbia
- Transportation Assistance in District of Columbia
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in District of Columbia
- Mental Health Resources in District of Columbia
- Domestic Violence Resources in District of Columbia
- Veteran Resources in District of Columbia
- Child & Family Assistance in District of Columbia
- Senior Resources in District of Columbia