Finding out you have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can bring a lot of changes. You might be figuring out the right treatment, how to pay for it, and how to take care of yourself — all while managing days when you don’t feel your best. Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal.

The good news? Government programs can help. They may cover HIV medicines, reduce healthcare costs, and support other essential needs. Here's what to know so you can see what you may qualify for and choose the options that work best for you or someone you care about.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal program that helps cover medical costs for people age 65 and older, or for those with certain disabilities or medical conditions. Because it’s run by the federal government, Medicare coverage is the same no matter where you live in the United States.

To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who has paid into Social Security through work. Medicare is not available to people without legal immigration status. You can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Medicaid

Medicaid is a government healthcare program that helps cover medical costs for people with limited income or certain health needs. Although the program follows general guidelines set by the federal government, each state runs its own version, so who qualifies and what’s covered can vary depending on where you live.

In general, Medicaid covers some individuals and families, including:

• Children
• Parents
• People living with disabilities
• Pregnant individuals
• Older adults with certain incomes

You can apply for Medicaid through your state’s Medicaid office, or in most states, at HealthCare.gov.

If you don’t qualify for full Medicaid due to your immigration status, you may still be eligible for emergency Medicaid. This can cover urgent health needs, including HIV-related medical emergencies, for people without other insurance. However, because states run these programs differently, it’s important to check what’s available where you live.

Social Security Disability Insurance

If you’re living with HIV and you can’t work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI provides monthly payments to people who can’t work for at least a year because of a disability. To qualify, you must have worked in a job that paid into Social Security, and you must be able to show that your health condition meets the program’s definition of a disability.

It’s not uncommon for people to be denied SSDI the first time they apply. If that happens, they can appeal the decision through a multistep process. Your healthcare provider may need to help by submitting more documentation that shows how HIV affects your ability to work. You can apply for SSDI online through the Social Security Administration at SSA.gov.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another program that provides monthly payments from the government. It’s for people who are 65 or older or who have a disability. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not based on your work history or how much you’ve paid into Social Security. Instead, it’s based on having a limited income and few financial resources.

In some cases, you may be able to qualify for both SSDI and SSI at the same time. Some people who aren’t U.S. citizens may also qualify for SSI. To apply, you must have documented immigration status and meet other program requirements. You can apply for SSI online.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program is a federal program that provides medical care, prescription drugs, and support services specifically for people living with HIV. If your income is limited, you may be able to access care through this program. Although it's federally funded, it’s run by individual states — so exactly what’s covered can vary depending on where you live. However, most states offer a similar set of core health and support services.

To qualify, you’ll need to show that:

• You’ve been diagnosed with HIV.
• Your income meets your state’s eligibility requirements.
• You don’t have insurance, or your insurance doesn’t fully cover the HIV care you need.

You can search for a participating care provider near you on the program’s website. That provider can help guide you through the application process. Eligibility requirements and documentation may differ slightly depending on the provider and state.

Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS

If you’re living with HIV and having trouble finding stable housing, the Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) program may be able to help. HOPWA supports people with low incomes in securing safe, consistent housing,

The program is federally funded and run by states and local governments. It’s generally available to people with HIV whose income is below 80 percent of the median income for their area. Eligibility rules — including for people with undocumented status — may vary or change, so it’s best to contact your local housing agency for the most up-to-date information.

You can find out more about the program by emailing HOPWA@hud.gov.

Community Health and Other Centers

Community health centers help make healthcare more affordable and accessible for everyone. These centers can provide HIV testing, and many also offer treatment or referrals to nearby specialists they partner with. You can search for HIV-related health services — including community health centers in your area — through online directories or local health departments. Be prepared to show proof of income, as some centers use income guidelines to determine eligibility for low-cost care.

You can also look into medical centers that participate in the Hill-Burton Free and Reduced-Cost Health Care Program. In exchange for federal funding to expand their facilities, these centers have agreed to provide free or reduced-cost care to people who qualify. Eligibility is based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) poverty guidelines, which may change each year.

To apply, contact a participating facility near you and let them know you’re interested in Hill-Burton assistance. They will guide you through the application process and let you know what documentation you’ll need.

State Programs for HIV

Many states offer their own programs to support people living with HIV. These programs vary widely by location and may help with HIV treatment, medication, housing, or other essential services. To learn what’s available where you live, you can contact the national HIV/AIDS hotline or find the one for your state.

Some states have recently passed policies that may limit support for people without legal immigration status. Because rules can change, it's important to check with a local clinic, community health center, or public health department to find the most current information.

Some cities also run their own HIV-related programs. For example, New York City offers HIV care to all people diagnosed with HIV, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay.

These programs can be harder to find, but your healthcare provider may know what’s available. You can also ask at your community health center or contact your city, county, or state department of health. To qualify, you may need to show that you don’t have access to other affordable care.

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