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  • About Representative Registration

    All Appointed Representatives assisting SSI/SSDI claimants using the SSA-1696 must now register as a Representative using the new SSA-1699: Representative Registration form.

    Type:
    SSA Forms
    Date:
    Oct, 2024
  • Celebrating Black History Month

    February is Black History Month, a time for us to honor Black Americans’ achievements in the face of systemic oppression throughout our Nation’s history. In 2021, we celebrated the Former Acting Commissioner of Social Security (ACOSS), Carolyn W. Colvin, M.B.A., her achievements while in office, and her support of the SAMHSA SOAR model.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2023
  • Co-Occurring Substance Use: Material to Disability?

    How substance use is considered in the disability determination process has changed substantially over the years. This article dispels several widely-held myths about how DDS views substance use (such as you have to be clean and sober to get benefits), and its impact on the application process.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Sep, 2012
  • Creating a my Social Security Account for Applicants

    When assisting an individual with completing and electronically signing an Online Disability Benefit Application the applicant will need to create a my Social Security account. The SAMHSA SOAR TA Center has developed guidance for SOAR providers.

    Type:
    Guides
    Date:
    Mar, 2022
  • Definitions of Homelessness

    The SAMHSA SOAR initiative is intended for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These terms are defined differently by SOAR and the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is important for SOAR providers to understand these differences when determining who meets the housing criteria to be a SOAR applicant and which cases can be expedited at SSA through the use of the “homeless flag.”

    Type:
    Guides
    Date:
    Jan, 2018
  • Getting Involved with SOAR

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

    Type:
    Guides
    Date:
    Mar, 2022
  • Identifying Possible Special Medical Vocational Profiles

    In an effort to better identify appropriate SOAR claimants, identifying claims which are more likely to have a favorable outcome is paramount. Social Security has developed Special Medical Vocational Profiles, which are rare combinations of adversities that combine, along with impairments, to result in a finding of disabled. 

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jun, 2021