A Home of My Own

Overview

Can I Live Independently?

The desire to live independently is a natural part of adulthood. All adults want to be in control of their own lives and make decisions for themselves! Just because you have a disability doesn’t mean you won’t be able to enjoy independence. However, it may take planning and preparation to make sure your health, safety, social, recreational, and of course financial needs are met to have a fulfilling independent life.

In this topic you will:

  • Prepare for independent living,
  • Compare renting versus buying a home,
  • Review the expenses that come with living independently,
  • Determine if you can afford to live independently using a money map,
  • Consider your housing needs and wants,
  • Learn how to comparison shop for a home,
  • Read about different types of insurance you might need, and
  • Gain additional resources around housing.
A man sits in his manual wheelchair on a concrete ramp walkway that leads to the front door of his home.
Neil added a ramp to his front entrance to make his home accessible.

At the end of this topic, you will have the opportunity to see what you have learned and think about how you plan to use your new knowledge. Complete the quiz on the Let’s Review page to earn your Living Independently (formerly A Home of My Own) Badge.

Cover shot of Cents and Sensibility - 8th edition.

Cents and Sensibility: A Guide to Money Management – 8th edition

This topic corresponds with Chapter 9: Living Independently in the book Cents and Sensibility: A Guide to Money Management. Learn more about Cents and Sensibility.