It’s crucial to correctly fill out the SSI medical release form (SSA-827) to avoid delays in the application process for SSI disability benefits.[1]
Each section of the SSA-827 form is integral to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application process.
Since 2012, SSA has implemented alternative methods like click-and-sign and attestation processes for signing and submitting the SSA-827, facilitating a more efficient application process.
The attestation process, previously available for adult claims, has been extended to some child disability claims since August 2013, making it easier for children or their legal representatives to apply.
The SSA-827 form maintains its HIPAA compliance and offers both traditional pen-and-ink and new electronic signature options.[2]
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) medical release form allows the Social Security Administration (SSA) to obtain your medical records and other health information. This information is used to evaluate your eligibility for SSI disability benefits. Filling out this form properly is important to avoid delays in your application.
In this guide, we delve into the detailed steps required to fill out the SSA-827 form[1], discuss the recent introduction of alternative signature processes, and provide additional insights to make your application process as smooth as possible.
Completing the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Medical Release Form, SSA-827, involves several key steps. The procedures may vary regionally due to different state release requirements​​:
WHOSE Records To Be Disclosed Box: This section, located in the upper right-hand corner of the form, is filled out by the claimant or SSA, specifying whose records are to be disclosed​​.
OF WHAT Section: This part details the types of information that can be disclosed, such as medical and educational records and other information related to the claimant’s ability to perform tasks​​.
FROM WHOM Section: This section lists potential sources of information, like medical providers, educational institutions, employers, etc​​.
FROM WHOM Box: This area, to be completed by SSA or Disability Determination Services (DDS) as needed, specifies additional details about the authorization​​.
TO WHOM Section: It informs the claimant about the entities that will process the disability claim, including SSA, DDS, and others involved in the process​​.
PURPOSE Section For Non-Disability Capability Claims: This is for authorizing the release of all records in non-disability claims where the claimant’s capability is an issue​​.
EXPIRES WHEN Section: The authorization given through this form is valid for 12 months from the date of the signatory's authorization​​.
INDIVIDUAL Authorizing Disclosure Box: The claimant must sign, date, and complete this section at the bottom left of Form SSA-827​​.
IF Not Signed By Subject Of Disclosure Box: If the claimant hasn't signed, a parent of a minor, a guardian, or another personal representative should mark the appropriate checkbox and specify their relationship to the claimant​​.
WITNESS Box: A section is provided for the witness signature, address, and phone number, and there's a space for a second witness if required​​.
“The attestation process has been made available for some child disability claims since 2013, enhancing the accessibility of the application process for minors.”
Click-And-Sign And Attestation Processes: Since 2012, SSA has introduced alternative ways for individuals to sign and submit Form SSA-827. Adults filing online can use a click-and-sign process, while those filing by telephone or in person can use the attestation process​​.
Attestation Process For Child Disability Claims: From August 2013, the attestation process has been available for some disability claims filed for children. This process applies to children filing a claim on their own behalf or individuals with legal authority to act on behalf of a child, excluding children aged 12 or older who are considered minors under state law​​.
Efficient Transmission And Record-Keeping: Both the click-and-sign and attestation processes allow the form to be transmitted and saved directly to Social Security's systems, eliminating the need for applicants to print, sign, and mail a paper copy. This streamlined approach is especially beneficial for online applicants, who can also print a copy of the signed form for their records​​.
“Implementing the click-and-sign and attestation processes for signing the SSA-827 form has reduced the average disability application processing time by approximately nine days.”
Simplified Process For Applicants: Applicants, whether filing for adult or childhood disability benefits, can sign the SSA-827 more efficiently as part of the disability application process. This eliminates the need to print, sign, and mail the form, enabling SSA to begin processing the disability claim sooner​​.
Continuation Of HIPAA-Compliant Form And Traditional Signatures: Healthcare providers will continue to receive a signed SSA-827 with each of SSA’s requests for records. The form remains HIPAA-compliant[2], and the only change is in the method used to sign the form. Traditional pen-and-ink signed forms will still be used alongside the new processes​​.
We've answered some of the most common questions about the SSI Medical Release form to help you better understand this.
The SSA-827 form allows the Social Security Administration to obtain your medical records and other health information, which are essential for assessing your eligibility for SSI disability benefits.
Yes, adults applying for disability benefits can complete the SSA-827 form online using the click-and-sign process. This method streamlines the application process and eliminates the need for paper forms.
Absolutely. The SSA-827 form remains HIPAA compliant, ensuring the protection of your medical information. The form's compliance remains intact irrespective of the method used for signing.
The authorization granted through the SSA-827 form is valid for 12 months from the date of the signatory's authorization.
For child disability claims, the attestation process is available for children or their legal representatives to sign the form efficiently. This applies to certain cases and excludes children aged 12 or older who are considered minors under state law.
If the applicant hasn’t signed the form, a parent of a minor, a guardian, or another legal representative should mark the appropriate checkbox and indicate their relationship to the applicant on the form.
The SSA-827, or the SSI Medical Release Form, plays a pivotal role in the SSI disability benefits application process. Understanding how to properly complete and submit this form is crucial for a smooth and efficient application experience. With the introduction of alternative signature processes like click-and-sign and attestation, the Social Security Administration has significantly streamlined the application process, benefiting both applicants and healthcare providers.
Our detailed guide explains SSI Child Tax Credit. Learn more by visiting Benefits Aid and exploring our comprehensive resources.