Advocacy Services
Independent Management Services offers comprehensive advocacy support to help individuals access critical benefits. This includes assisting with applications for Social Security disability benefits and Continuing Disability Reviews, as well as helping individuals apply for public assistance programs through the Minnesota Department of Human Services, such as cash, food, and health care. Our advocates work closely with clients to ensure they receive all benefits for which they are eligible while awaiting decisions from the Social Security Administration.
Social Security Advocacy
Social Security Advocacy services assist children and adults who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and unable to work due to a long-term medical, physical, or mental impairment. These services support individuals in applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), as well as navigating the entire claims process—from initial applications and reconsiderations to hearings and appeals. Assistance is also provided for Continuing Disability Reviews to help maintain benefits.
Supportive Services
Independent Management Services provides advocacy to help individuals apply for Minnesota Department of Human Services public assistance programs, including cash assistance, food benefits, and health care coverage. We assist clients in accessing all eligible benefits and provide referrals to other supportive services to address their broader needs throughout the application and decision process.
FAQ
What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
SSDI provides benefits to people who have developed a disability or who are blind and who are “insured” by workers’ contributions to the Social Security trust fund. These contributions are based on your earnings (or those of your spouse or parents) as required by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). Title II of the Social Security Act authorizes SSDI benefits. Your dependents may also be eligible for benefits from your earnings record.
The SSI program makes cash payments to people who are aged, blind, or have developed a disability (including children) and who have limited income and resources. The federal government funds SSI from general tax revenues. Many states pay a supplemental benefit to people in addition to the federal payments. Some of these states have arrangements with us to combine their supplemental payment with the federal SSI payment into 1 monthly check. Other states manage their own programs and make their payments separately. Title XVI of the Social Security Act authorizes SSI benefits.
Can I work and receive benefits?
Yes. The Social Security Administration has special rules that make it possible for people to received SSDI or SSI and still work.
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Do you help people apply for retirement benefits?
Unfortunately, at this time we cannot assit individuals in applying for retirement benefits. Please reach out to your local Social Security office for assistance.
How long does the process take?
This vaires from case to case: On average, an initial decision, can take 6-8 months. There are special situations when payments can be expedited.
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I've been certified disabled by the State Medical Review Team (SMRT) does that mean I automaticaly get benefits?
No. While the process to determine if somone is disabled is similar, they are two separate programs. Being certified disabled by SMRT does NOT guarantee the Social Security Administration will find you disabled too. You will need to apply for benefits with The Social Security Administration and receive a determination from them as well.
How do I get started?
If you’d like to refer yourself or another indvidual to our advocacy program please complete the forms at the bottom of this page. Completed forms can be emailed to our intake coordinator at info@imsofmn.com or faxed to 507-437-0977
Meet The Team
Meet the team
Tessa Bucknell, BA
AMH Treatment Director, SOAR Case Manager
Elizabeth Johanns, BS
SSA Supervisor, SOAR Case Manager
Referrals
If you’d like to refer yourself or another indvidual to our advocacy program please complete the forms below. Completed forms can be emailed to our intake coordinator at info@imsofmn.com or faxed to 507-437-0977