Library & Tools

These are the tools and worksheets created by the SOAR TA Center that can help you in the Child SSI Application process.

After completing the SOAR Online Course: Child Curriculum, case workers assisting child SSI applicants should complete the following steps as part of a standard SOAR workflow. In many states and communities, there is an established SOAR Process(i) for the submission and processing of SOAR-assisted SSI applications. In other areas, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Disability Determination Services (DDS) may not yet know about the SOAR initiative. Either way, case workers can use the SOAR model to submit quality and complete child SSI applications efficiently and effectively.

Youth and young adults may be eligible for various Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits, including Survivors, Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits, 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 youth and young adults.

SOAR Leaders can use the SOAR for Children: Process Intercepts Infographic when marketing SOAR for Children to new audiences or to identify areas for engaging new stakeholders.

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.