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  • Overview of Social Security Disability Programs: SSI and SSDI

    There are two SSA disability programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). People often confuse them. Both programs are federally funded and administered by the Social Security Administration.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Sep, 2012
  • PATH and SOAR Overview

    Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) and SOAR are two key programs administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) that work together to end homelessness. Both programs serve adults who have serious mental illnesses and/or co-occurring substance use disorders who are experiencing or at risk for homelessness and assist them in gaining income and housing stability.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Apr, 2017
  • Pay Equity for Social Workers

    When employers recognize the value of SOAR case workers and coordinators by offering them equitable salaries, the benefits go beyond the individual case worker.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Apr, 2021
  • Prior or Pending Applications

    It is important to find out whether someone has a pending initial claim or is waiting for a reconsideration or an appeals hearing before starting a new application.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Sep, 2013
  • Recognizing National Social Security Month

    April is National Social Security Month! In 2021, we honored Mike Nolan, one of the SOAR initiative’s longest-standing supporters at the Social Security Administration (SSA).

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2023
  • Recognizing SOAR Success in Maryland

    Maryland has long had a SOAR certification process for those who have had at least four out of five SOAR cases approved. However, knowing just how much work goes into undertaking each and every SOAR application, this year they decided to expand how they recognize individuals’ efforts. 

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jul, 2021
  • Reviewing Denial Notices and the Electronic Folder

    When you are preparing to appeal a denial of disability benefits, the first thing you should do is request the case file so that you can review key components of the file and decision! 

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    May, 2016
  • Sample Functional Descriptions

    This article provides example descriptions for the areas of mental functioning. The “effective” functional descriptions clearly link the symptoms of the applicant’s illness with their limitations.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2017
  • Sample Medical Summary Reports

    We’ve gathered examples of well-written, successful Medical Summary Reports (MSRs) from SOAR providers across the country for the SOAR community to use as extra guidance.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jan, 2017
  • Sample SOAR Job Description

    Is your agency looking to hire a SOAR Benefits Specialist?  Take a look at this Sample Job Description!

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Jun, 2019