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.

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."

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.

An individual who is not a U.S. Citizen is potentially eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) under certain circumstances described below. This resource is not exhaustive of all ways that a non-citizen may be eligible for SSI benefits. If there is any question about eligibility or other immigration issues, case managers should contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly.

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.

This webinar, held on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, in partnership with HIAS walks participants through SSI eligibility and how the Social Security Administration makes a decision on SSI claims for noncitizens with disabilities. It will also describe the SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) model and how staff can get involved with SOAR initiatives in their state. 

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.