Skip to main content

Icon library tools 0 Library & Tools

  • 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
  • ALJ Hearings: Prehearing and On the Record (OTR) Reviews

    Under certain circumstances, the SOAR representative can request that a case be referred back to DDS for a Prehearing Review or that the Office of Hearing Operations (OHO) make an On-the Record (OTR) decision prior to an ALJ Hearing. As well, when OHO feels they can make a fully favorable decision without holding a hearing, they can independently refer a case back to DDS and/or make an (OTR) decision.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Dec, 2016
  • SOAR for Adults who have HIV/AIDS

    SOAR critical components can also be used effectively for adults who have HIV/AIDS. Here is additional information that will be helpful when assisting this population.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Oct, 2016
  • SOAR in Rural Communities

    While individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness are more visible in urban settings, homelessness is also prevalent in rural areas. The barriers to access Social Security disability benefits can be numerous, but SOAR can assist.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Oct, 2016
  • Appointed Representative Services (ARS)

    Appointed Representatives assisting with ALJ hearings and Appeals Council level cases can obtain online access to applicants’ electronic folders by enrolling in Appointed Representative Services (ARS). There are also benefits to enrolling in ARS, even if you only assist with initial claims.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Sep, 2016
  • Impact of Increased Income on Housing Voucher Programs

    Increasing income through employment and Social Security disability benefits is critical for maintaining housing stability. However, for individuals utilizing housing vouchers, fear of losing their vouchers often prevents them from exploring employment. To encourage work, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has numerous incentives to protect those returning to work from immediate rent increases and voucher loss.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    May, 2016
  • SOAR Strategic Planning

    Because SOAR is built on collaborations as well as training, the first step in starting a SOAR program is to bring key community partners together to agree upon and establish a SOAR Process and create a SOAR action plan. The SAMHSA SOAR TA Center can assist you every step of the way.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    May, 2016
  • Opening an Encrypted SSA CD-ROM

    The Social Security Administration (SSA) keeps all new disability files in electronic format. Applicants and authorized representatives have the right to obtain relevant application information on a CD-ROM. When you are preparing to appeal a denial of disability benefits, you should request the case file so that you can review key components of the file and decision.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    May, 2016
  • 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
  • Funding and Sustainability Tools and Resources

    Here are some tools that can assist your efforts to obtain funding for your SOAR program. Sample SOAR proposals and budgets, infographics, and the SOAR Cost Savings/Benefit Calculation Guide are provided, as well as links to external resources and trainings.

    Type:
    Article
    Date:
    Feb, 2016