In response to barriers identified for people who are homeless, a special unit was started in the Boston Disability Determination Services (DDS) in 1985 to handle all disability determinations for applicants who are homeless. When an application is filed at the local SSA office for a person who is homeless, the application is flagged and assigned directly to the DDS homeless unit. The flagged file assures that the application is dealt with promptly by disability examiners and doctors in the unit who are well versed on homeless issues.
The unit encourages presumptive disability, which allows applicants to begin receiving benefits based on the presumption that they will be found disabled once the usual process is complete. In addition, the unit expedites consultative examinations when necessary.
In 2004, a DDS employee began visiting area shelters twice a week to assist with applications. The DDS homeless unit supervisor provides trainings to shelter staff regarding SSA disability programs and the application process. The Boston DDS also actively encourages relationships with agencies throughout the state. They work in conjunction with an advisory board made up of DDS employees, advocates, and consumers and actively participate on board’s subcommittee on homelessness.