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Adulthood topics:

Programs and services

To navigate adulthood, find the programs and services that can help your family member plan for their best life.

Start by reviewing the programs and services offered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services to help people with disabilities and children and families. Then explore the resources listed below.

Disability Benefits 101 is a great resource to learn about:

  • Myths and truths of working
  • How to manage your money
  • How to find the right job
  • Job supports and accommodations
  • Benefits and accounts to build financial health

Also check out the work section under Your Options.

Housing Benefits 101 is a great resource to learn about:

  • Housing options
  • How to pay for housing
  • Services you can receive in your home
  • Special programs for rural, tribal and veterans housing

Also check out the housing section under Your Options.

If you have low income, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help you stretch your budget to get the food you need for nutritious and well-balanced meals. Get the details here:

Health coverage is an important element in getting the care your family needs. Depending on your situation, you might have access to employer-sponsored coverage, Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. Or, you might choose to purchase your own health insurance through MNsure. Even if you earn too much money to qualify for Medical Assistance, your child might qualify for MA-TEFRA.

Learn more about your health coverage options under Your Options.

For long-term services and supports — such as personal care assistance or waiver services — request a MnCHOICES assessment (PDF) from your county agency or tribe. Find phone numbers in this tribal and county directory.

Also talk to your family member's health care provider about medical needs, such as skilled in-home nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy. Check with your insurance provider about what's covered and any steps you need to take to ensure coverage.

If your family member is eligible for a home and community-based waiver, they may be eligible for a home or vehicle modification. Ask your local county agency or tribe about the process to make modifications. Find phone numbers in this tribal and county directory. You'll need to follow an assessment, authorization and installation process for the modifications to be reimbursed through the waiver. 

If your family member isn't eligible for a home and community-based waiver, consider other ways to get help with home or vehicle modifications, such as grants and resources for accessible vans and help building wheelchair ramps.

If you adopted your family member with special needs, the Adoption Assistance Program may reimburse certain modification costs. Check out reimbursement instructions for home modification and vehicle modification.

Get the basics on disability benefits and how to apply from Social Security.

To apply for cash, food, child care or emergency assistance, use MNbenefits. If you need immediate help, contact your county agency or tribe. Find phone numbers in this tribal and county directory.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services offers many services and programs for adults with mental health needs. Depending on the services you're interested in, you might start with your family member's health care provider, your health care plan, or your local county agency or tribe. Find phone numbers in this tribal and county directory.

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