SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) is a model designed to increase access to Social Security Administration (SSA) disability benefits for eligible individuals who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and have a serious mental illness, medical impairment, and/or co-occurring substance use disorder.
SOAR Training and Technical Assistance
Idaho SOAR Training
Policy Research Associates (PRA) provides SOAR training and technical assistance for Idaho providers on behalf of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
Training helps providers learn how to use the SOAR model to assist eligible individuals with the SSI/SSDI application process. Providers also have access to technical assistance, resources, and support to help them implement the SOAR model in their work.
Free SOAR training, technical assistance, and resources are available to Idaho providers through PRA, beginning October 30, 2026 (an updated link will be added here on that date).
Who Should Take SOAR Training?
SOAR training is for case managers, outreach workers, behavioral health providers, healthcare staff, housing providers, and others who assist eligible individuals with SSI/SSDI applications.
What are SSI and SSDI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are federal disability benefit programs administered by the Social Security Administration.
- SSI provides monthly payments to people with limited income and resources who meet Social Security's disability, blindness, or age requirements.
- SSDI provides benefits to people with disabilities who have a qualifying work history and have paid Social Security taxes.
Who can SOAR support?
SOAR can support adults and children who are:
- Experiencing or at risk of homelessness
- Living with a behavioral health or other disabling condition
- Needing assistance with the SSI/SSDI application process
A person does not have to currently be homeless to receive SOAR assistance. Individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness may be supported through SOAR if they also meet applicable SSI/SSDI eligibility requirements.
How does SOAR help?
SOAR providers help individuals navigate the SSI/SSDI application process by:
- Gathering important information and documentation
- Completing and submitting a high-quality application
- Following up on the application
- Tracking progress and providing ongoing support
Why does SOAR matter?
Applying for SSI/SSDI benefits can be a complicated process. SOAR provides specialized training and support to providers to help eligible individuals navigate the application process and submit complete applications.
SOAR can improve access to SSI/SSDI benefits and may contribute to greater financial stability, which can support engagement in behavioral health treatment, services, and recovery.
National SOAR Technical Assistance Center transition
As of August 18, 2025, the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center has closed.
The SOAR model remains recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Disability Determination Services (DDS).
Idaho is committed to continuing SOAR work and has contracted with PRA to provide SOAR training and technical assistance for Idaho providers. Idaho is also transitioning to a new SOAR training platform, which is estimated to launch on October 30, 2026.
Thank you for your patience during this transition.
Need more information?
For information about Idaho SOAR, training, technical assistance, referrals, or additional resources, contact: