Attachment #2 - New Applicant Survey Email to Applicant Representatives who come from Applicant Representative Associations

Attachment A-2

Email to Applicant Representatives from Applicant Representative Associations

[DATE]

Dear Claimant Representative:

We are reaching out to you today to ask for your help with the New Applicant Survey, a national survey conducted by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The survey will collect information about:

• The characteristics of individuals who have recently applied for SSA disability benefits,

• Their experiences before and during the application process, and

• The pathways that led them to apply for disability benefits.

SSA hired Westat, a national research company, to carry out the survey on SSA’s behalf.

WHY YOU ARE RECEIVING THIS EMAIL:

• One or more of your clients may be selected to participate in the New Applicant Survey.

• Your clients may reach out to you regarding the validity of the survey. We kindly request that you confirm the survey’s legitimacy and encourage their participation.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE SURVEY:

• Your clients’ participation in this survey is voluntary.

• SSA will protect your clients’ information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other Federal laws.

• Your clients’ name or other identifying information will not be included in any reports.

• Participation in this survey will not affect your clients’ eligibility for benefits now or in the future.

• Your client(s) will receive a small incentive to show them our appreciation for their participation in the survey (their invitation letter will contain further detail).

WHERE TO GO FOR MORE INFORMATION/IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS:

• To access the survey website, which provides information on the survey and answers key questions, please click https://xxxxx.org.

• If you would like to speak to a project staff member, please call [PROJECT PHONE NUMBER] and someone will return your call as soon as possible.

I hope you will encourage your client(s) to participate in this very important survey, if selected for participation. Their participation may help SSA to improve their application process.

Sincerely,

Applicant Representative Association Official