Non-Medical Documentation

Non-Medical Documentation

SSA may require documentation that substantiates non-medical information provided. Some of this documentation can be difficult for persons experiencing homelessness to provide, such as a driver's license or birth certificate. The SSI & SSDI Non-Medical Information Checklist (DOCX) can help you keep track of necessary documentation that might be required.

Identity (SSI and SSDI)

A current valid photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport should be sufficient to prove an applicant’s identity. However, many individuals experiencing homelessness do not have any formal identification documents. A Social Security number and a few other pieces of identifying information suffice. If someone does not remember their Social Security number, the case manager can assist with locating records that may contain the applicant's SSN (e.g. medical records, old tax records). Alternatively, SSA may accept other documents that include details about the applicant's date of birth, parents’ names, and other names used in order to locate his/her SSN.

SSDI applications require an original birth certificate . SSA may already have this documentation, so case managers should check with them first. If the person does not have an original birth certificate at the time of the initial application, SSA will nonetheless accept the application and can assist in obtaining an acceptable record.

Case managers may need to help people obtain a birth certificate by contacting the office of vital records in the state where they were born. (Typically a charge is assessed for this service.) Case managers may need to help the person get a photo ID. Sometimes the local police or sheriff’s department will provide a photo ID. Attorneys with Legal Aid services can request birth certificates on behalf of individuals with no formal ID.

Income (SSI and SSDI)

Wages can be verified through pay stubs or a letter from the employer. If income is provided by a friend or family member, it can be verified by a signed letter indicating whether it was a gift or in payment for service provided. Income considered for SSI purposes can be earned or unearned. Examples of documentation (original or copies) include, but are not limited to:

• Paystubs or letters from employers, family, or friends supplying income
• Self-employment income tax returns
• Other benefits (SSI): TANF, State assistance, VA
• Child support (SSI)
• Proof of Worker’s Compensation or State Disability Insurance Benefits (benefits letter or check stubs) (SSDI)

Living Situation (SSI)

People who own or rent should provide SSA with a copy of a mortgage, deed, or rental agreement. People living with someone else or in temporary housing must provide a letter specifying the living arrangement. This letter should also state how much—if anything—the person pays in rent. For those who are living in an emergency shelter or outdoors, no documentation is required.

• If own, copy of mortgage or deed
• If rent, copy of rental agreement (lease) or receipts
• Name and address of anyone providing in-kind help, such as food or clothes

Resources (SSI)

Be sure to inquire if the person has any resources. Have available copies of:

• Life insurance policy
• Bank account statements (most recent, including any joint accounts)
• Certificates of deposit
• Stock/mutual fund certificates
• Bonds held in own name
• Proof of ownership for any land, houses, etc.
• Burial contract

Dependents (SSI and SSDI)

A list of dependents will suffice.