Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Mississippi

Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Mississippi (2025 Edition)

Last updated: September 2025

This hub focuses on programs that specifically serve people with disabilities in Mississippi. You will see steps, contacts, timelines, and what to do when things stall. We link you directly to official state and federal pages so you can act fast.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Stop a utility cut-off today: Ask your doctor for a medical hardship letter and give it to your electric or gas utility to trigger Mississippi’s 60‑day shutoff protection, then set a payment plan the same day. Use the rights in the state’s Ratepayers’ Bill of Rights and call the Public Service Commission if the utility refuses. See details under “How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Mississippi Today.” Mississippi Public Service Commission, PSC Rules. (psc.ms.gov)
Secure rides to care for you or your child: Book Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) at least 3 business days ahead; use the “Where’s My Ride” line if the driver is late. If you live in Jackson, the Coast, or Hattiesburg, also apply for local ADA paratransit. Modivcare (MS Medicaid rides), JTRAN Paratransit (Jackson). (modivcare.com)
Apply for disability-based coverage or cash: If your disability stops you from working, file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and, if you have work history, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Ask for help by phone or in person, and request free interpreter or TTY services if needed. Social Security (apply/800 number), SSI 2025 benefit rates. (ssa.gov)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Medicaid waivers and eligibility: Call DOM or your regional office for Elderly & Disabled, Independent Living, or ID/DD waivers; ask about Working Disabled Medicaid too. MS Division of Medicaid (DOM), Waivers overview. (medicaid.ms.gov)
MDRS personal care/home mods: State Attendant Care, home/vehicle modifications, equipment, respite, or case management. Call 1-800-443-1000. MS Dept. of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS), State Attendant Care. (mdrs.ms.gov)
Assistive devices today: Borrow or request refurbished durable medical equipment or a computer from Project START. Call 601-853-5249. Project START (AT program), Mississippi Project START site. (mdrs.ms.gov)
Legal help for denials/appeals: Apply by phone for free civil legal aid if you’re low‑income. North: 1‑800‑498‑1804; Central/South: 1‑800‑498‑1804. North MS Rural Legal Services, MS Center for Legal Services. (nmrls.com)
Find a human fast: Dial 2‑1‑1 (backup 1‑866‑472‑8265) for local disability‑aware resources and referrals 24/7. United Way 211 Mississippi, MS E‑11 Directory. (unitedwaysems.org)

Who This Guide Is For and How to Use It

You’ll find disability‑specific programs, not general aid for everyone. Each section starts with the most important action and ends with “What to do if this doesn’t work.” Every paragraph includes 2–3 direct links so you can click through immediately to official pages.

Key terms used here: SSI (cash for disabled people with low income), SSDI (insurance based on your work), DOM (Mississippi Division of Medicaid), MDRS (Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services), DMH (Department of Mental Health), HCBS (Home‑ and Community‑Based Services), ID/DD (intellectual/developmental disabilities), E&D (Elderly & Disabled Waiver), IL (Independent Living Waiver), NEMT (non‑emergency medical transportation), PSC (Public Service Commission), MAC (Mississippi Access to Care Centers). Social Security—Disability, DOM Waivers overview. (www-origin.ssa.gov)

Quick Program Snapshot (2025)

Program	Who it helps	Core benefit	Where to start
SSI (cash)	Disabled adults/children with very low income	Up to $967/mo (individual) in 2025; amount varies	SSI amounts (SSA), SSI basics (ssa.gov)
Working Disabled Medicaid	Adults with disabilities who work 40+ hrs/month	Medicaid with modest premium if income >150% FPL	Working Disabled (DOM), Who qualifies (DOM) (medicaid.ms.gov)
Independent Living Waiver (IL)	Age 16+, severe ortho/neuro impairments	PCAs, case mgmt, home mods, equipment	IL Waiver (DOM), Waivers list (DOM) (medicaid.ms.gov)
Elderly & Disabled Waiver (E&D)	Age 21+, nursing‑home level of care	Attendant care, adult day, respite, home mods	E&D Waiver (DOM), E&D Admin Code update 6/1/25 (medicaid.ms.gov)
ID/DD Waiver	Any age with ID/DD level of care	In‑home supports, respite, day programs, therapies	ID/DD (DMH), ID/DD Waiver (DOM) (dmh.ms.gov)
Katie Beckett/TEFRA	Disabled child under 19 living at home	Medicaid based on child’s needs, not parent income	Katie Beckett (DOM), Who qualifies (DOM) (medicaid.ms.gov)
ABLE (529A)	Disabled individuals (onset before 26 or 46 per federal law)	Save/spend without losing SSI/Medicaid	Mississippi ABLE (MDRS), ABLE NRC—MS (mdrs.ms.gov)
NEMT rides	Medicaid members needing rides	Free rides to covered medical visits	Modivcare (MS), DOM transit update (modivcare.com)
Utility shutoff protection	Anyone in household with documented life‑threatening condition	60‑day disconnection hold with physician note	PSC Bill of Rights, PSC Rules (psc.ms.gov)
Jackson water bill relief	Jackson households on SNAP	$10 availability charge customer class; payment plans	JXN Water rates, JXN SNAP self‑ID (jxnwater.com)

SSI and SSDI: Cash Benefits Tied to Disability

Start here: If you cannot work due to a medical condition expected to last at least a year (or is life‑threatening), apply for federal disability benefits. Apply for SSI if you have very low income/resources; apply for SSDI if you have enough work credits; you can apply for both. Call 1‑800‑772‑1213 (TTY 1‑800‑325‑0778) to get an appointment, or apply online. Social Security—Disability, SSA 800‑number and TTY. (www-origin.ssa.gov)

Eligibility and amounts: For 2025, the federal SSI maximum is $967/ m o n t h f or anin d i v i d u a l an d$ 1,450/month for an eligible couple; Mississippi does not pay a state SSI supplement. SSDI amounts depend on your earnings record; you may also qualify for Medicare after 24 months on SSDI. SSI 2025 rates (SSA), SSA SSI Benefits page (2025 edition). (ssa.gov)

Documentation to gather: Medical records and test results; a complete list of doctors, hospitals, and medications; work history for SSDI; income and resources information for SSI; and your bank details for direct deposit. Ask SSA for free interpreters and accessible formats if you need TTY, large print, or audio. Contact SSA/TTY & language access, SSA service & online account. (ssa.gov)

Timelines and wait times: Phone waits have improved this year, but benefit decisions can still take months; create a “my Social Security” account and call early or late in the day. Keep notes of every call, and follow up monthly. SSA service improvements and call wait goals, SSA online services. (blog.ssa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal on time if you’re denied—don’t start over. Get free legal help if low‑income; legal services can help with appeals, hearings, and overpayment issues. Call 1‑800‑498‑1804 in North/Central/South MS, or ask 2‑1‑1 for a referral near you. NMRLS (North MS), MS Center for Legal Services (Central/South). (nmrls.com)

Mississippi Medicaid Paths That Are Disability‑Specific

Start here: If you’re disabled, there are several Mississippi Medicaid routes that are not open to everyone. Some open Medicaid outright; some open Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) supports. Contact DOM or your local Medicaid regional office; ask about eligibility categories below. DOM Who Qualifies, Medicaid contact (DOM). (medicaid.ms.gov)

Working Disabled Medicaid: Adults with a disability who work at least 40 hours/month may qualify, often with no premium at ≤150% FPL, and a small premium if above that level; proof of wages is required. Apply through your regional office. Working Disabled (DOM), DOM contact info. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI): If you receive Medicare (SSDI → Medicare after 24 months), Medicaid can pay your Part B premium and, with QMB, your Medicare deductibles/coinsurance. DOM notes processing can take 4–6 weeks before premiums are restored to your Social Security check. Medicare Cost‑Sharing (DOM), CMS 2025 Part B $185. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Katie Beckett (formerly DCLH): For children under 19 with disabilities who meet an institutional level of care; parent income is not counted if the child can be safely cared for at home. Reapply if the condition changes. Katie Beckett (DOM), Who Qualifies (DOM). (medicaid.ms.gov)
HCBS Waivers you should know: E&D (age 21+ nursing facility level of care), IL (age 16+ with severe orthopedic/neurological impairments), and ID/DD waiver (no age restriction for people meeting ICF/IID level of care). Services can include attendant care, respite, home mods, supported employment, and specialized supplies. E&D Waiver (DOM), IL Waiver (DOM). (medicaid.ms.gov)

How to apply (HCBS): Call a Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Center at 1‑844‑822‑4622 to get screened, referred to a case management agency, or placed on a planning list, and ask what waivers fit your situation. If ID/DD is involved, contact your local DMH regional center to request evaluation and support coordination. MAC Centers (MDHS/DOM), DMH ID/DD services. (mississippiaccesstocare.org)

Documents you’ll need: State ID; Social Security card; medical records showing disability and level‑of‑care needs; proof of income/resources; proof of residency; and doctor orders if requesting home health or equipment. Ask DOM for large‑print forms or interpreters at no cost. DOM Non‑Discrimination & language access, Who Qualifies (DOM). (medicaid.ms.gov)

Reality Check: Waivers often have planning lists; slots open as funding and capacity allow. Ping your case manager monthly, keep your phone reachable, and document call dates. Consider the MDRS State Attendant Care Program if you’re not yet on Medicaid. State Attendant Care (MDRS), OSDP home services (MDRS). (mdrs.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the MAC Center to review other covered categories like “Institutional/300% of SSI FBR with income trust” or “Protected Medicaid categories,” and request a supervisor callback. File a grievance with DOM if your ADA or language rights aren’t met. MAC (DOM contact page), DOM Non‑Discrimination. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Home Care, Personal Attendants, Equipment, and Home Modifications

Start here: MDRS can fund services that keep you at home and parenting—case management, attendant care, home or vehicle modifications, specialized medical supplies, and respite—especially through the Office of Special Disability Programs (OSDP). Call 1‑800‑443‑1000 or complete an online referral. MDRS OSDP, OSDP Referral. (mdrs.ms.gov)

If you’re not on Medicaid yet: Ask about the State Attendant Care Program, which helps when you’re ineligible for duplicate services elsewhere; it provides attendant care and case management so you can avoid nursing‑home placement. State Attendant Care, MDRS Location Finder. (mdrs.ms.gov)

Assistive Technology fast‑track: Project START (Mississippi’s AT Act program) offers short‑term device loans, a durable medical equipment reuse program, and refurbished computers for education/work—helpful if your child has online school or you’re applying for remote jobs. Project START (MDRS), Project START (program site). (mdrs.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal an MDRS denial in writing (ask about the Client Assistance Program), and request a supervisor review. If you need devices now, ask Project START about current stock and local partners like TK Martin Center for demos. MDRS Assistive Technology Division, Project START device services. (mdrs.ms.gov)

Transportation for Medical Appointments and Daily Life

Start here: If you have Medicaid, schedule NEMT rides through Modivcare at least three business days before your appointment; use “Where’s My Ride” if the driver is late by 15+ minutes. Keep your Medicaid ID ready. Modivcare Mississippi, Member “Where’s My Ride”. (modivcare.com)

Managed‑care contacts: DOM lists current phone lines if you’re in a plan (Molina, Magnolia, TrueCare), plus Fee‑for‑Service numbers for Modivcare. Check the DOM page for up‑to‑date plan ride lines. DOM Covered Services—transportation contacts, Modivcare transition notice. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Local ADA paratransit (for non‑medical trips too): Apply for paratransit if fixed‑route buses aren’t usable due to disability. Jackson’s JTRAN Paratransit, Coast Transit Authority’s ADA Paratransit, and Hattiesburg’s Hub City Transit offer door‑to‑door service in their zones. JTRAN Paratransit (Jackson), CTA ADA Paratransit (Coast). (jacksonms.gov)

Table — Transportation Quick Guide

Service	How to book	When to call	Backup/late ride line
Modivcare (Medicaid FFS)	1‑866‑331‑6004	≥3 business days before visit	1‑866‑334‑3794 (“Where’s My Ride”)
Jackson—JTRAN Paratransit	(601) 952‑1000	Day‑before request; ADA‑eligible	(601) 960‑0725 (reservations)
Coast Transit ADA Paratransit	(228) 896‑8080 (office)	Day‑before to 14 days ahead	Fare zones info on site
Hattiesburg—Hub City Transit Paratransit	(601) 545‑3356	About 2 weeks to process eligibility; reservations required	City HCT office for Title VI/LEP help

Modivcare MS, JTRAN Paratransit. (modivcare.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If rides are repeatedly late/no‑show, file complaints with Modivcare or your plan and also tell DOM. Keep trip numbers and dates. For local paratransit, use Title VI/ADA grievance forms if service is denied. Modivcare complaint line, JTRAN Title VI/ADA info. (modivcare.com)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Mississippi Today

Start here: Hand your utility a written medical certification from a Mississippi‑licensed doctor (or adjoining state) stating shutoff would be life‑threatening to you or someone in the home; this activates a 60‑day hold. Ask for a delayed payment plan and confirm it in writing. PSC Bill of Rights — medical hardship, Rule 8.125, PSC rules & complaint portal. (psc.ms.gov)

Electric and gas company disability‑focused funds: Entergy’s Power to Care (through Salvation Army) helps customers with disabilities; Mississippi Power’s Project SHARE can give up to $300/year for medically disabled customers. Call the utility or their listed nonprofit partner to apply the same day. Entergy—Power to Care, Mississippi Power—Payment Assistance (Project SHARE). (entergy.com)
Reality Check: Some funds run out mid‑month or when temperatures spike. Ask 2‑1‑1 to search additional local funds and community action agencies if the utility fund is empty. Keep your physician letter current; renew the 60‑day hold if a crisis continues. United Way 211 MS, 2‑1‑1 FAQ (MS database). (unitedwaysems.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a PSC complaint online or by phone and note you have a life‑threatening condition; ask for an immediate hold while the complaint is reviewed. Consider a doctor‑to‑doctor call if equipment like oxygen concentrators is at risk. PSC complaint portal, PSC customer rights. (psc.ms.gov)

Jackson Water Bill Help — SNAP Customer Class and Payment Plans

Start here: If you live in Jackson and receive SNAP, ask JXN Water to move you into the SNAP customer class ($10 availability charge) and enroll in a payment plan up to 12 months. Call 601‑500‑5200 or upload your SNAP card image online. JXN Water Rates (SNAP class), JXN Water SNAP Self‑ID form. (jxnwater.com)

Context to know: A recent court ruling limited automatic data‑sharing of SNAP lists, so self‑identifying is key. If you applied to older relief funds, check your status with JXN Water, as some relief programs have closed. Mississippi Today—SNAP data ruling, JXN Water People’s Relief Campaign notice. (mississippitoday.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for churches or local funds that help with water bills and call JXN Water to set an affordable payment plan while you wait. Keep proof of SNAP eligibility handy for your account file. United Way 211 MS, JXN Water Ways to Pay/Contact. (unitedwaysems.org)

ABLE Accounts: Save Money Without Jeopardizing SSI/Medicaid

Start here: Mississippi ABLE lets you save and spend for disability‑related needs without losing SSI/Medicaid. Annual contribution limit is $19,000 in 2025 (more if you’re working under ABLE to Work). Call 1‑888‑609‑3469 to enroll or get forms. Mississippi ABLE (MDRS), ABLE National Resource Center—MS profile. (mdrs.ms.gov)

Key numbers: State ABLE account cap is $235, 000; SS I i s p a u se d i f t h e A B L E ba l an cee x cee d s$ 100,000, but Medicaid continues. You can use a debit/checking option for daily spending. MS ABLE contact & limits, ABLE NRC—MS details. (savewithable.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re deciding between Mississippi’s plan and another state’s National ABLE Alliance plan, compare fees and features and ask MS ABLE for disclosure documents. Request a free webinar from MDRS if your group needs training. ABLE plan search tool, Mississippi ABLE program page. (ablenrc.org)

Work and Keep Your Benefits Safer

Start here: If you want to work or return to school, use Social Security’s Ticket to Work for free benefits counseling and employment services; request Mississippi providers by phone. Also contact MDRS Vocational Rehabilitation to explore training, tools, and job supports. Ticket to Work Help Line, MDRS Vocational Rehabilitation. (ssa.gov)

Know your 2025 benchmarks: The SSI federal rate is $967; S u b s t an t ia lG ain f u l A c t i v i t y (n o n ‑ b l in d) i s$ 1,620/month; trial work period is $1,160/month. Ask a benefits counselor to model how these rules affect you before you accept hours. SSA Red Book—2025 thresholds, SSA SSI amounts. (ssa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If no one calls back, text “TICKET” to 571‑489‑5292 for updates and call again; also ask MDRS for assistive tech or job accommodations to make work feasible. Ticket to Work (Choose Work), MDRS Assistive Technology. (choosework.ssa.gov)

Housing When Disability Is Involved (Not General)

Start here: Ask your local housing authority about “Mainstream” vouchers for non‑elderly people with disabilities or disability‑accessible public housing units. Use HUD’s Mississippi page to find PHAs and housing counselors who know disability priorities. HUD Mississippi—rental help, HUD Mississippi—state page. (hud.gov)

Fair housing enforcement: If a landlord denies a reasonable accommodation (like allowing a live‑in aide) or accessible unit transfer, file with HUD FHEO. Disability is a protected class; you can file online or by phone. HUD MS—report discrimination, HUD FHEO complaint. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call legal aid and the Mississippi Center for Justice for eviction or accommodation issues, and ask 2‑1‑1 to search for disability‑specific rental charities in your county. MS Center for Justice (contacts via HUD page), MS Legal Services intake. (hud.gov)

ID/DD Services for You or Your Child

Start here: For autism, intellectual disability, or similar needs, contact your DMH regional center for an evaluation, support coordination, and to get on the ID/DD Waiver planning list if criteria are met. Ask about 1915(i) Community Support Services if you need in‑home supports before a waiver slot opens. DMH ID/DD services, ID/DD Waiver (DOM). (dmh.ms.gov)

Services you can request: In‑home supports, respite (including nursing respite), behavior support, therapies, day services, job supports, host home/shared living, and transition assistance. Your support coordinator helps build the plan and pick providers. North MS Regional Center supports, South MS Regional Center—community services. (nmrc.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If there’s a crisis, ask for Crisis Intervention or Crisis Support; Hudspeth Regional Center lists a direct line for temporary crisis support admissions (with prior authorization). Hudspeth—Waiver Crisis Support, DMH Certification contacts. (hrc.ms.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Start here: Disability Rights Mississippi (the state Protection & Advocacy system) can help when your rights are violated at school, work, housing, or with services—call for intake. The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities is a statewide cross‑disability network. Disability Rights MS, MS Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities. (disabilityvotesms.com)

The Arc of Mississippi and local chapters support families with ID/DD through training, respite, and advocacy; check the chapter list and contact the chapter near you. The Arc of Mississippi, Arc—Local chapters contacts. (arcms.org)
United Way/2‑1‑1 connects you to faith‑based funds, food, and local help lines statewide; ask for disability‑specific aid and interpreter services if you need them. United Way 211 MS, 2‑1‑1 statewide info. (unitedwaysems.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied accommodations or services, ask Disability Rights MS for help, and if sued or evicted, apply immediately to legal aid by phone during intake hours. Disability Rights MS (DRMS), Legal aid statewide intake. (disabilityvotesms.com)

Diverse Communities: Where to Get Tailored Help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use local LGBTQ+ centers for mutual aid and provider lists; the Spectrum Center in Hattiesburg maintains affirming health and legal referrals and small mutual‑aid funds, and Gulf Coast Equality lists community resources on the Coast. Ask DOM/SSA for free interpreters and inclusive language access when you apply. Spectrum Center of Hattiesburg, Gulf Coast Equality resources. (tschburg.org)

Veteran single mothers: Contact the Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) benefits specialists for free claims help; ask about VA Aid & Attendance, caregiver stipends, and veterans‑specific housing support. Use VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 1‑855‑260‑3274 for respite and counseling. MS Veterans Affairs—Service Officers, VA Caregiver Support. (msva.ms.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Catholic Charities’ Migrant Support Center provides low‑ or no‑cost immigration legal services and community education; Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance offers legal clinics and advocacy. Request qualified interpreters at DOM/SSA at no cost. Catholic Charities Jackson—Migrant Support Center, MIRA—contacts. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)

Tribal-specific resources: Members of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians can connect with the Choctaw Health Center and Department of Family & Community Services for assistance services, WIC, and veterans transport. Use the health center’s main line for care coordination. Choctaw Health Center (MBCI), MBCI Assistance Services. (choctawhealthcenter.org)

Rural single moms: Call the MAC Center to identify HCBS and in‑home supports in rural counties; ask about mileage reimbursement for caregivers, and use Modivcare’s mileage reimbursement or gas cards when available. If paratransit isn’t available in your town, ask MDRS about vehicle modifications or local volunteer driver programs. MAC Network (statewide), Modivcare—MS rides. (mississippiaccesstocare.org)

Single fathers: If you are a single dad with a disability, the same programs apply. Ask 2‑1‑1 for caregiver support groups, and use MDRS and DOM regardless of gender or marital status. United Way 211 MS, MDRS services. (unitedwaysems.org)

Language access and accessibility: DOM and SSA must provide interpreters, TTY access, and materials in alternative formats (large print, audio). Tell the agency what you need at the start of the call or visit. DOM Non‑Discrimination & language aids, SSA contact & interpreter access. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call)

Jackson/Central: Use the MAC Center and JXN Water SNAP class; apply for JTRAN Paratransit if you can’t use fixed routes. MAC (Jackson office list), JXN Water SNAP class. (mississippiaccesstocare.org)
Gulf Coast (Biloxi/Gulfport/Pascagoula): CTA ADA Paratransit and Mississippi Power’s Project SHARE; Catholic Charities South MS for outreach and referrals. CTA ADA Paratransit, Mississippi Power—Project SHARE. (coasttransit.com)
Hattiesburg/Pine Belt: Hub City Transit Paratransit and the Spectrum Center resources list; ask MAC Hattiesburg site for waiver screening. Hub City Transit, MAC locations. (hattiesburgms.com)
Delta (Greenville/Cleveland/Greenwood): Call your MAC site; legal aid intake lines cover Delta counties for appeals or housing. MAC contacts, NMRLS offices. (mississippiaccesstocare.org)
North/Northeast (Tupelo/Columbus/Starkville/Oxford): Apply for VR services through MDRS and ask local Arc chapters for support. MDRS—Find a location, Arc Northeast MS. (mdrs.ms.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the medical hardship letter for utilities: Verbal notes don’t trigger the 60‑day protection—get the doctor’s written note to the utility and keep a copy. PSC Bill of Rights, PSC rules. (psc.ms.gov)
Not asking for HCBS screening through MAC: Families often call the “wrong” office; MAC is designed to route you to the right waiver and help with forms. MAC Network, MAC 2.0 contacts (DOM). (mississippiaccesstocare.org)
Leaving money on the table with Medicare Premiums: If you have Medicare, always apply for QMB/SLMB/QI to reduce costs; approval can be retroactive for SLMB/QI. Medicare Cost‑Sharing (DOM), CMS 2025 Part B premium. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Reality Checks (Funding, Delays, Denials)

Waiver slots: Funding and provider capacity limit enrollments; plan for interim supports like State Attendant Care or Project START equipment reuse while you wait. MDRS State Attendant Care, Project START reuse. (mdrs.ms.gov)
NEMT: Book 3 business days in advance; urgent discharges may be same day, but regular visits reschedule if notice is too short. Keep trip numbers for complaints. Modivcare MS rides, DOM—NEMT contacts. (modivcare.com)
SSA backlogs: Decisions take time; set calendar reminders to check claim status and submit any new medical evidence right away. SSA service improvements blog, SSA 800/TTY. (blog.ssa.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need	First call/step	Backup
Stop shutoff	Medical hardship letter + payment plan	File PSC complaint; call 2‑1‑1
Get rides	Modivcare 1‑866‑331‑6004	“Where’s My Ride” 1‑866‑334‑3794
Home help now	MDRS OSDP referral	State Attendant Care or Project START
Medicaid path	MAC Center 1‑844‑822‑4622	DOM regional office
ABLE savings	MS ABLE 1‑888‑609‑3469	ABLE NRC program comparison

PSC Bill of Rights, MAC Network. (psc.ms.gov)

Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

Doctor documentation: Diagnosis, functional limits, and need for in‑home supports or hardship.
ID & benefits: State ID, Social Security numbers, Medicaid/Medicare/SSI award letters.
Income/resources: Pay stubs, bank statements, child support orders, and benefit letters.
Insurance: Medicare card or private plan; list of meds; provider names/addresses.
Housing & utilities: Lease, recent utility bills, and any shutoff/disconnect notices.
Transportation: Medicaid ID, appointment details, and special needs (wheelchair, escort).
Contacts: Phone numbers for case workers, doctors, and two backup contacts.

SSA—Disability apply, MAC Network. (www-origin.ssa.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)

Start here: Appeal in writing before the deadline; keep fax or upload receipts. Ask for your case file and decision rationale; the reason guides your next steps. SSA disability (appeals access), DOM grievance & civil rights. (www-origin.ssa.gov)

Get representation: Apply to legal aid by phone; ask specifically for SSI/SSDI appeals or Medicaid fair hearings help. Save copies of all notices and envelopes. NMRLS (north), MS Center for Legal Services (central/south). (nmrls.com)
File complaints about access: If you were denied interpreters, TTY, or accessible formats, file a civil rights grievance with DOM and, if needed, HHS OCR. DOM Non‑Discrimination, HHS OCR. (medicaid.ms.gov)

County Differences You’ll Notice

Case management networks: Central MS uses agencies like CMPDD for E&D Waiver case management; counties work with different agencies, so call your MAC Center to confirm the right intake form. CMPDD Medicaid Waiver info, MAC Center county look‑up. (cmpdd.org)
Transit availability: Coast and Jackson have ADA paratransit; smaller counties rely on Medicaid rides or regional programs. Confirm service hours before scheduling daycare or work. CTA ADA Paratransit, JTRAN Paratransit. (coasttransit.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (Mississippi‑Specific)

How much is SSI in 2025 and when will I see the first check?
The maximum federal SSI is $967/ m o n t h f or anin d i v i d u a l an d$ 1,450 for an eligible couple in 2025; Mississippi has no state supplement. Timing depends on when your claim is approved, but many see their first payment in the month after award. SSI rates 2025, SSI benefits overview. (ssa.gov)
Can I get Medicaid if I’m working part‑time with a disability?
Yes, the Working Disabled category may cover you if you work at least 40 hours monthly and meet income/resource rules; some pay a small premium. Apply via your DOM regional office. Working Disabled—DOM, Who Qualifies—DOM. (medicaid.ms.gov)
How do I get personal care or respite at home?
Ask MDRS OSDP about attendant care or respite and apply for E&D or IL Waivers via MAC. Keep your doctor’s notes showing help needed with bathing, dressing, or mobility. MDRS OSDP, E&D Waiver (DOM). (mdrs.ms.gov)
What if I’m in Jackson and can’t afford my water bill?
If you get SNAP, ask JXN Water to place you in the SNAP class ($10 availability charge) and arrange a 12‑month plan; call 601‑500‑5200. JXN Water Rates (SNAP), SNAP self‑ID. (jxnwater.com)
How can I protect my Medicare check from the Part B deduction?
Apply for a Medicare Savings Program (QMB/SLMB/QI). DOM says allow 4–6 weeks for the premium to be added back to your Social Security benefit. Medicare Cost‑Sharing (DOM), CMS 2025 Part B $185. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Who gives rides for my Medicaid appointments?
Modivcare coordinates Fee‑for‑Service rides; plans list their own lines. Call at least 3 business days ahead and use “Where’s My Ride” for delays. Modivcare MS, DOM transportation contacts. (modivcare.com)
Is there a way to save without losing SSI/Medicaid?
Open a Mississippi ABLE account; up to $19, 000 p erye a rc anb eco n t r ib u t e d in 2025, an d ba l an ces u n d er$ 100,000 don’t affect SSI payments. MS ABLE (MDRS), ABLE NRC—Mississippi. (mdrs.ms.gov)
My child has serious disabilities but our income is too high for regular Medicaid.
Apply to Katie Beckett (TEFRA) so Medicaid is decided on your child’s needs and resources, not yours. Reapply if needs change. Katie Beckett (DOM), Who Qualifies—DOM. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Who helps with civil rights or abuse in services?
Disability Rights Mississippi can take rights cases; DOM has a civil rights coordinator and must provide interpreters and accessible formats. DRMS contacts, DOM Non‑Discrimination. (disabilityvotesms.com)
Where do I get immediate local help if offices are closed?
Dial 2‑1‑1 (backup 866‑472‑8265) to reach a live specialist; request disability‑aware resources, emergency food, or church funds for a deposit. United Way 211 MS, 2‑1‑1 FAQ & hours (MS). (unitedwaysems.org)

Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA; verifique los detalles con las agencias oficiales.

Dinero y cobertura médica por discapacidad: Solicite SSI/SSDI por teléfono o en línea con la Seguridad Social; pida intérpretes gratis o TTY si los necesita. Seguridad Social—Discapacidad, Beneficios SSI 2025. (www-origin.ssa.gov)
Medicaid por discapacidad: Llame al MAC (1‑844‑822‑4622) para evaluar exenciones (E&D, IL, ID/DD) y categorías especiales (Trabajador con Discapacidad, Katie Beckett). Red MAC, Quienes califican—Medicaid MS. (mississippiaccesstocare.org)
Transporte a citas: Programe viajes de Medicaid con Modivcare (1‑866‑331‑6004) con 3 días hábiles de anticipación; use “Where’s My Ride” para retrasos. Modivcare MS, DOM—servicios cubiertos. (modivcare.com)
Corte de servicios: Entregue una carta médica para recibir 60 días de protección contra desconexión y acuerde un plan de pagos. Derechos de Usuarios—PSC. (psc.ms.gov)
Ahorros protegidos: Abra una cuenta ABLE de Mississippi para ahorrar sin perder SSI/Medicaid. MS ABLE, ABLE NRC—MS. (mdrs.ms.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

We produce this guide under our Editorial Standards using official sources, updated regularly, but we are not a government agency and this is not a substitute for official guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes are not guaranteed. Please report corrections to info@asinglemother.org within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This content is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice. Program rules change and local availability varies by county and funding. Always confirm current eligibility, documents, and timelines with the agency before applying or spending money on third‑party services. If your situation is urgent, call 2‑1‑1 or 9‑1‑1 for emergencies.

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