An HIV diagnosis can put a lot on your plate at once. You may be thinking about treatment, figuring out how to pay for care, and trying to take care of yourself at the same time. It can be a lot to manage.

Government programs may help with HIV medicines, healthcare costs, housing, and other needs. Here’s what to know about the programs available and how to find out which ones may be an option for you or someone you care about.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal program that helps cover medical costs for people ages 65 and older or for those with certain disabilities or medical conditions. Because the federal government runs it, 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 meets Medicare’s eligibility rules, which may include your or your spouse’s work history. Medicare is not available to people without legal immigration status. You can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

🗳️ What type of HIV-related assistance are you most interested in?

Help with healthcare costs

Help paying for medicines

Housing assistance

Income or disability benefits

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Social Security Disability Insurance

If you’re living with HIV and 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 submit 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.

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.

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, contact the national HIV/AIDS hotline or find your state’s hotline.

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

Check for Local Programs Too

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.