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LAW Home > Legal Topics > Government Aid and Services > Social Security Disability/SSI

Social Security Provides New Resources to Help People Use Its Services

 

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The closure of Social Security Administration (SSA) physical offices in response to the pandemic has made it difficult for some people to use SSA services. SSA recently responded by increasing outreach to vulnerable populations and the people who assist them. This article describes and provides links to the new resources.

People Helping Others Website

The information on the “People Helping Others” website is mostly for people who help others with SSA claims and other services. Topics include:

  • Applying for Supplemental Security Income and/or Social Security Disability
  • Getting legal or advocacy help
  • Checking status of a pending benefits application
  • Appealing a decision for benefits
  • Reporting changes, such as starting or ending a job, starting or ending other benefits, changing an address, or traveling outside the country for 30 consecutive days
  • Complying with income and wage reporting requirements
  • Repaying or requesting waiver of an overpayment
  • Getting an original or replacement Social Security or Medicare card
  • Accessing other special information pages to help vulnerable populations
  • Getting help in languages other than English.

The convenience of being able to quickly locate the exact information needed, and then determine where and how to submit required applications and documents is particularly useful. Especially while in-person help at local SSA offices is extremely limited, the People Helping Others website will help those helping others to use SSA services.

Outreach Website

Social Security’s new Outreach Website includes a variety of resources divided into two main categories. The first category is outreach resources and materials. It includes practical information such as how to reach SSA during the pandemic. It also includes outreach materials to specific groups such as the deaf and hard of hearing, faith-based and community groups, and people who are blind or visually impaired. The second category is for the SSI program for kids. It has information on the programs and guides for school professionals, parents, and guardians on the programs that SSA has for children.

Faith and Community Groups Website

SSA wants to encourage faith and community based groups to assist people who use its services. Its new website describes how they can help and it includes links to helpful resources. One is an outreach toolkit, a 17-page document with articles to help people understand and access SSA services. Also included are links to SSA fact sheets, social  media, and blog. Another link explains how groups can request a speaker.

Upcoming Resources

SSA announced that it is expanding available resources. Some upcoming improvements to look for include:

  • A national advertising campaign to support all outreach efforts on TV, radio, and social media, with special emphasis on children with disabilities, and
  • Training videos for community- based caseworkers to help their clients with the SSI application process.

Resources from Legal Services

Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) also provides information and, in some cases, representation to people in Social Security matters. Some of that assistance includes:

  • The SSI Project at LSNJ’s Edison, NJ office represents some people who receive General Assistance or TANF benefits in SSI disability claims. For more information call 1-877-576-5774 and see the SSI Project brochure.
  • Regional Legal Services programs can sometimes represent people in Social Security matters. Find your local Legal Services office.
  • Additional information about Social Security is available in our Social Security Disability/SSI section..
  • The LSNJLAWSM Hotline can answer questions about Social Security and other civil legal matters at 1-888-LSNJ-LAW (1-888-576-5529) or online.
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