Library & Tools

Older adults may be eligible for various Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits, including retirement, survivors, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Determining eligibility and understanding the application process can be complex. Individuals should contact SSA for comprehensive information regarding eligibility for benefits and visit the SSA website to learn more about eligibility criteria and the benefits available to older adults.

State-specific Medicaid waivers can help expand access to services for children with disabilities.

A success story from Minnesota was featured in our February 2023 e-Newsletter.

Sandy Mishkin, SOAR Specialist in New Mexico, shares her experience submitting her first SOAR-assisted SSI application for a child.

Kristin Lupfer, Project Director of the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, facilitated a workshop at the National Federation of Families' 2021 Virtual Conference titled, "Reducing Homelessness for Families, Children, and Youth with Disabilities Using the SOAR Model."

On this webinar, held on February 3, 2021, we discussed engagement and collaboration strategies for submitting complete SSI applications for children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about obtaining SSI benefits for children in foster care.

On this webinar, held on February 21, 2019, the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center shared new tools and resources for completing Child SSI applications, including the new SOAR Online Course: Child Curriculum. As well, SOAR Leaders discussed their strategies and plans for implementing SOAR for Children initiatives in their communities.

When youth who have been receiving SSI benefits as children reach age 18, they must be reevaluated to determine whether they meet SSA’s medical and nonmedical eligibility criteria for adults. This process – referred to as “redetermination” – is essential for youth who will continue to need SSI support into adulthood.

Children who have HIV/AIDS often have multiple disabling conditions, such as serious mental illnesses, cognitive disorders, and other chronic physical health conditions. SSA disability benefits provide income and health insurance, making it possible for many to gain access to housing, treatment and other supports.