Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can feel like an endless maze of paperwork, deadlines, and medical documentation. When you need benefits, you want to make sure your application is approved right away.
For someone dealing with a serious disability, homelessness, or a mental health challenge, it can feel stressful. Fortunately, there are programs to help. Here is how Tennessee’s SOAR program assists with SSD applications, and how it could apply to you.
What Is SOAR?
SOAR stands for SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery. This program’s mission is to help people with disabilities apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
However, the support from SOAR goes beyond filling out forms. It provides support, guidance, and advocacy to those who need it the most. The program trains case managers, social workers, and other professionals to help applicants with every step of the benefits process.
Does SOAR Make the SSD Application Process Easier?
SOAR’s services focus on helping individuals put together an SSD or SSI application. They make sure your medical records, treatment histories, and personal statements all show your eligibility. A SOAR-trained caseworker can guide you through collecting documents from doctors, hospitals, and other providers. They want to ensure that nothing is missing from your file.
One of the most common reasons applications are denied is mistakes or missing information. These SOAR professionals double-check your forms and work with your medical providers to make sure everything is accurate and complete. That extra level of attention can make a huge difference in getting your application approved faster.
But there are a few other ways that they can help:
Advocacy and Follow-Up
Applying for SSD benefits does not end once the forms are submitted. Sometimes, the Social Security Administration (SSA) asks for more information or takes a while to respond.
These SOAR caseworkers act as advocates. They will follow up on your application and communicate with SSA representatives. These professionals make sure nothing falls through the cracks. For people already managing a serious disability, this support can be a lifeline.
Specialized Support for Mental Health and Homelessness
SOAR is helpful for individuals dealing with mental health challenges or homelessness. These individuals may not have access to help. Under those circumstances, it can make it hard to get records or stay in touch with SSA.
In Tennessee, SOAR providers work in shelters, mental health clinics, and community organizations. They meet you where you are to ensure you get your needed help.
Training and Knowledge Sharing
SOAR trains local professionals like social workers, case managers, and healthcare providers. With that, they know how to guide others through the SSD and SSI process.
Even if you do not work directly with a SOAR worker, you can benefit from having these professionals in your community who understand the system and can point you in the right direction.
How SOAR Can Work Hand-in-Hand with a Lawyer
One of the biggest advantages of Tennessee’s SOAR program is how well it can work with your legal support. While SOAR focuses on getting your application in order, an attorney can step in to provide legal guidance and advocacy. This can help if you have a complicated case or your claim is denied.
SOAR does the heavy lifting of preparation and early-stage advocacy. On the other hand, a lawyer can review denials, identify any procedural errors, and represent you during appeals. This partnership often speeds up the process and increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
We Can Assist with Your Benefits Claims
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits is stressful, confusing, and slow. Fortunately, SOAR assists with SSD benefits in Tennessee. If you’re thinking about applying for SSD or SSI, connecting with a SOAR-trained professional could save you time, frustration, and unnecessary stress. Plus, pairing that with an attorney can help you get your deserved benefits.
At Easter & DeVore, Attorneys at Law, we can help with your benefits. Reach out to us to see how we can assist with these applications.
