Staff spotlight: Mai Vang, ASL Social Security Specialist

[The following text is the English translation of the video.] 

Hello everyone, my name is Mai Vang. I am the first ASL Social Security Lead Specialist in the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division (DHHSD) and Housing and Support Services Division (HSS). I will work closely with the Social Security Advocacy Services team under Housing and Support Services.

What does Social Security Advocacy Services do?

Everyone deserves to live in dignity and achieve their highest potential. Social Security Advocacy Services helps people with disabilities apply for or keep Social Security disability benefits. Services are for people under age 65 who are homeless or could become homeless.

What do I do?

I help deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing Minnesotans with the Social Security disability application process, including:

• Intake screening and initial application.
• Calling your Minnesota Social Security field office.
• Answering questions about SS overpayment.
• Reconsideration, appeals, or continuing disability review.

I can also tell you how to apply for other benefits, such as food stamps (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP), Medical Assistance (MA) and housing assistance. I also provide training and resources to providers and case managers who serve people who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing.

How do you find out more?

If you are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing and need help with Social Security disability benefits, please contact the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division.

Voice or your preferred relay service: 651-431-5945 or 800-657-3663
Videophone: 651-964-1514
Email: dhs.dhhsd@state.mn.us
Web: mn.gov/deaf-hard-of-hearing

We look forward to serving you!