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  • Linking Functional Information to Diagnosis and Impairment

    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.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2017
  • Interviewing for the MSR

    One of the most important tasks for you to accomplish is to make the link between diagnosis and functional impairment so that DDS can fully understand the applicant’s disability. This article discusses how to ask questions that elicit the information you will use to write your Medical Summary Report (MSR).

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2017
  • Myth Busting: SSI/SSDI & Transition Age Youth

    Transition age youth (TAY), (youth and young adults between the ages of 16 and 25), who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and have serious mental illness and other medical impairments may find it difficult to maintain employment and may also struggle to access disability benefits. The Social Security Administration's (SSA) narrow definition of disability combined with a lack of support throughout the application process has created an environment rich with myths.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Nov, 2015
  • SOAR for Children who have HIV/AIDS

    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.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Apr, 2018
  • Age 18 Redetermination

    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.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Apr, 2018
  • My First SOAR Application for a Child

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

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Nov, 2021