misc. disability benefits

[Guest guest]

I'm obviously a little new to being officially disabled (though not at all

new to the actual health effects).

My question: what does this now qualify me for, besides a monthly check from

the federal government? This may sound like a strange question to those of

you who are old hands at this, but I really don't know. And I confess, I

haven't been paying much attention, in reading about it and generally going

about my life.

About all I can think of is handicapped parking, and I don't even know

exactly what jurisdiction covers this or how I go about applying. I assume

there are lower rates for city mass transit and rural buses, but again, I

have no idea how this works, how to apply for any card or whatever, and/or

what exactly to show in the way of proving a disability (either by way of

applying for something on a semi-permanent basis, or on-the-spot proof, like

for instance an out-of-state hotel rate or movie theater). All I have at the

moment is a letter of decision from the SSA. Is this enough, or should I

wait to get some kind of " award " letter or official card, from them? In case

it matters, I can walk and drive, but I get quite weak, dizzy, and

out-of-breath with exertion.

I'm also asking about any tie-in that would include a disability AND very

low financial resources, in case that matters as well.

Steve D.