Resources and Basic Info Needed for Disability Services in Massachusetts

Applying for disability services is a complex and sometimes intimidating process. But it is possible to navigate through the complex systems with a little knowledge and a solid plan of action. And the benefits of receiving these services far outweigh the challenges and frustrations of the application process.

Disability Services Resources

There are a lot of disability services available for a lot of different situations, so it is important to know what your ideal outcome might be. Maybe you need to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), require assistance with Transition Services for teens with special needs, help with an older adult with a disability, or one of the many other services out there. If you are having trouble figuring out where to start, here are a few resources to consider to begin your journey:

• Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) – This is one of the best places to begin your hunt for information. It provides contact information to get questions answered as well as links to various services.
• Mass.gov Disability Benefits page–Offered by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC), this page guides you through the eligibility determination process.
• DisabilityInfo.org – This page provides links to a variety of basic programs and services for people with Disabilities. Everything from legal advocacy and assistive durable medical equipment (DME) to personal care and transportation assistance is covered on this page. This is a fantastic place to begin your research.
• Disability Benefits Center – This page has a free disability evaluation to determine if you qualify for services. This page is geared toward SSDI and SSI eligibility and recommends that you hire a Massachusetts social security disability attorney.
• Massachusetts Disability Resources and Advocacy Organizations – Created by OlmsteadRights.org, an advocacy group formed based on the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision Olmstead v. L.C., this site has a massive list of links to all sorts of disability services, organizations, and information of interest for anyone needing help for someone with a disability.
• Birth Injury Justice Center – The Birth Injury Center is dedicated to supporting anyone who has been affected by birth injuries, brain injuries, cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, and other developmental disabilities. We strive to provide answers and guidance to ensure that families receive the assistance that they need to help improve their overall quality of life.

Basic Information Needed for Applying for Disability Services

There are a few things that almost any application for services will require, so it is a good idea to gather this information so you have it on hand during the application process:

• Social Security Number/Card
• Medical Records – Any information from doctors, therapists, hospitals, or clinics that might be necessary during the application process.
• Medical Provider Contact Info – The names, addresses, phone and fax numbers for anyone involved in the individual’s care.
• Labs and Test Results
• List of Medications – Include the dosage and frequency of use information as well.
• Employment Information – A list of the individual’s employers, employment dates, and a listing of job duties for the last 15 years.
• School Evaluations and Records – These school records are critical for any child with special needs because they document the issues that may impact the eligibility and scope of services offered.
• Financial Information

This basic information will be needed for most disability service applications in some form or fashion, although some services will require additional information depending on the need and scope of services to be applied for.

Let Lift & Care Systems Be Your Advocate for Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

We have been selling and installing durable medical equipment (DME) such as Surehands lift systems in Massachusetts since 1993, so we know a little something about how to manage insurance companies and other funding sources used to pay for it. Give us a call at (508) 465-5254 or fill out this online contact form and we will try to answer any of your questions about this process and help however we can.