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Question:
Is there a process to get SSI benefits reinstated after being released from prison?

When SSI recipients are incarcerated for a full calendar month, (e.g., March 1-March 31), their benefits are suspended. If they are released in less than 12 consecutive calendar months, their benefits can be reinstated upon release. They need to bring official release papers from the institution to the local Social Security office. SSA will review their new living arrangement and reinstate payment. If SSI recipients are incarcerated for 12 consecutive calendar months or more, their SSI benefits are terminated and they must reapply.

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Question:
If the applicant is in jail currently but when released in a few weeks will be homeless, is their living arrangement on SSA-8000 transient or homeless?

His current living arrangement is an institution. However, if by the time you submit the completed application to SSA he will have been released, you can indicate that he is homeless on the SSA-8000. You can always add additional information in the remarks section to explain that his living arrangement is changing.

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Question:
Are there county jails or correctional facilities that have a quick check list that is used to determine who may or may not qualify for SSI/SSDI?

Yes, see the Criminal Justice version of the "Identifying SOAR Applicants" tool on the SOAR Tools & Worksheets page.

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Question:
Can someone who is in prison and not receiving any benefits apply for SSI?

Social Security has what they call Pre-release Procedures for individuals who want to apply for SSI while they are still in an institution (jail, prison, state hospital, etc). The general rule is that an individual can apply 30 days prior to their expected release date, although there are exceptions. Some SSA field offices set up informal or formal pre-release agreements with local institutions to extend that time period up to 90 days prior to release. If there is no pre-release agreement currently in place with his institution and that field office, you could speak to the manager at the SSA office and see about setting up an agreement, especially if you are going to be assisting with multiple prerelease applications at this institution. When you submit the application you will need to bring a letter from the institution stating that the applicant is expected to be released on a specific date. SSA has a brief FAQ on the SSI Prerelease Procedure for additional information: http://www.ssa.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-prerelease.htm

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