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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.

This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, two-spirit, and other diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions (LGBTQ+) applicants during the Supplemental Security Income/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) application process. Learn more about using respectful language, engaging in productive and meaningful ways, and preparing SSA forms and the SOAR Medical Summary Report (MSR) with special care and attention to details around LGBTQ+ matters.

Estos son algunos de nuestros recursos traducidos al español. (Here are some of our resources translated into Spanish).

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

This issue brief, developed by the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, explores how use of the SOAR model can increase access to income and health insurance, facilitate housing stability, and support unaccompanied youth pursing education and vocational goals.

This issue brief, developed in collaboration with the SOAR TA Center, discusses the disability determination process and medical eligibility criteria for child SSI applications.

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.

The Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) is an exciting funding opportunity from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for communities to design and implement a plan to prevent and end youth homelessness.

For applicants with mental disorders, DDS examiners look at a person’s ability to function in four primary areas. Your responsibility is to describe the functioning of the individual in as much detail as possible and to document how the person’s illness impairs his or her ability to function and maintain employment at a substantial gainful level.