Question: I have a client that recently applied for SSI with assistance from a non-SOAR case manager. Am I able to take over this application by submitting a new release form?
Yes, you are absolutely able to work on an application that is in progress!
You will submit the SSA-1696 form to SSA to become the applicant’s representative and determine where the application is in the evaluation process. You can then work quickly to submit any necessary SOAR Critical Components to strengthen the application (e.g., medical records, Medical Summary Report).
Question: I have been meeting with a client regarding SOAR, but after seeing their records, I do not believe they qualify or will be approved for benefits. How do I talk to them about it? Am I obligated to continue the application?
You are not obligated to continue the application, especially if you feel they do not meet the qualifications as outlined in Identifying SOAR Applicants.
We recommend focusing as much as possible on the applicant’s strengths and explaining that it appears they do not qualify for benefits (i.e., that they are able to work.) Then, if possible, provide a warm handoff to supportive services and/or employment supports.
However, we never want to discourage an applicant from applying; if they would like to apply on their own, we recommend sharing the Applicant Self-Help Guide
Question: Can SOAR-trained practitioners able to complete all SSI/SSDI application forms online?
You can complete Social Security’s Online Disability Benefits Application with your clients. This online application encompasses the SSDI application and the Adult Disability Report (i.e., replaces paper forms SSA-16 and SSA-3368).
Within 2-3 days of submitting the online disability application, you will submit three paper forms to SSA:
SSA-8000 (SSI application)
SSA-1696 (Appointment of Representative)
SSA-827 (Authorization to Release Information to SSA)
Question: What if a client seeking SOAR assistance does not have an ID card?
You can assist someone to apply for Social Security benefits even if they do not have identification. SSA has a set of questions they can ask the individual to verify their identity. (Name, SSN, DOB, mother’s maiden name, contact information)
That said, it is great to help someone obtain their identification documents so that they have them available for other uses. This can be done in parallel with the SSI/SSDI application process. Our partner organization, the Homeless and Housing Resource Center (HHRC) has a great resource on their website, Helping Individuals Experiencing Homelessness Obtain Identification Documents: https://hhrctraining.org/knowledge-resources/toolkit/1926/helping-obtain-ID
The SAMHSA SOAR TA Center considers a "SOAR application" to be one in which all (or most) of the SOAR critical components are done. These include serving as the person's representative with the SSA-1696, collecting medical records and writing a Medical Summary Report documenting the person's functional impairment. If the SOAR provider is unable to get all of the records or is unable to get the Medical Summary Report signed by a treating physician, it would still be counted as a SOAR application because all was done that could be done.