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COMBINED MANUAL

ISSUE DATE 12/2017

SPECIAL SERVICES - APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY

0012.12.06

Refer applicants/participants who want help applying for or retaining SSI to the Disability Hub MN, 1-866-333-2466. The Disability Hub MN can refer people to a Social Security advocate in their area. Also see the Social Security Advocacy Directory for a list of all contracted DHS agencies throughout the state who assist individuals applying for federal disability programs.

MFIP, GA, GRH: Advocacy services are available to clients who apply for Social Security benefits.

Encourage clients who may have difficulty with the SSI application process and/or for an appeal to accept help from an SSI advocate. Let clients choose their own service provider whether county staff, a DHS Social Security benefits advocate, or their private arrangement. (SSA will now directly compensate attorneys and certain non-attorney advocates from SSI back payments as they do for RSDI claimants.)

County agencies continue to perform other functions in the interim assistance program, including:

● Screen clients for referral to SSA.

● Explain the Social Security application process.

● Explain the benefits available through Social Security.

● Obtain the client’s signature on the SSI Interim Assistance Authorization (DHS-1795) (PDF) and update the STAT/PBEN panel.

● Track the progress of the client’s Social Security application.

● Provide priority response to Social Security and DHS inquiries regarding the claim.

● Convert the client to MSA and MA and make other benefit adjustments as appropriate when the client becomes eligible for SSI.

● DHS will tell the county agency of clients who have received GA for 2 years or more for potential Social Security eligibility screening.

● MAXIS produces a DAIL/DAIL message alerting you to clients you must screen for referral for a Social Security application.

In screening potential referrals for a Social Security application, look for clients who:

● Have an illness, injury or mental condition that will prevent work for 12 months or more or result in death.

OR ● Are not required to pursue Social Security benefits under their current GA basis of eligibility but may also have another basis of eligibility that does require a Social Security referral.

OR ● Have had a change in circumstances that indicates possible Social Security benefits eligibility including having received GA for more than 6 months with little or no change in their condition.

Social Security advocates will:

● Help clients set up appointments, complete application forms and cooperate with Social Security procedures, requirements, etc.

● Help with necessary transportation.