Library & Tools

This issue brief, developed by the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, explores how SOAR collaborates with SSA and DDS, what roles each plays in a successful partnership, and the benefits to SSA and DDS of collaborating with state and local SOAR programs.

Completing the SSA-827 allows SOAR case managers to obtain the applicant’s medical records, in order to verify that they meet the medical eligibility criteria for SSI/SSDI.

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding HIPAA concerns when collecting and releasing medical records.

The National Organization of Social Security Claims Representatives (NOSSCR) has compiled a list of the state statutes and regulations regarding the collection of fees for medical records.

In the process of collecting medical evidence, the DDS examiner may decide that there is insufficient information to make a determination about disability. In this case, the DDS examiner can request an evaluation from an outside source called a Consultative Exam (CE).

Here are some FAQs about Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR).

Here is some guidance from the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center and the Social Security Administration for gathering information about and documenting Long COVID for SSI/SSDI applications.

The CE report should show not only the individual’s symptoms, laboratory findings (psychological test results), and diagnosis but also the effect of the mental disorder on the individual’s ability to function in personal, social, and occupational situations.

You want to be a SOAR provider? That’s great! This infographic shows what to expect.

As we all do our best to address the barriers associated with racism and inequity, we must accept the discomfort that comes with the effort to learn about ourselves, learn about each other, and grow to create a psychologically safe environment in which staff can work and thrive. Here are some suggestions for improving staff engagement by integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into our SOAR work.