DHS/Social Security Advocacy Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, Housing and Support Services Division is requesting proposals for Social Security Advocacy Services to assist eligible individuals in applying for, appealing, and maintaining federal disability benefits through the Social Security Administration, with proposals due October 22, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CT through the SWIFT system.

Eligible clients must currently receive or have previously received at least one of the following: General Assistance, Housing Support Program, or Minnesota Family Investment Program. Individuals whose sole source of public assistance is Medical Assistance or State Medical Review Team certification are ineligible. Providers must have at least one registered Social Security representative on staff, though registration can be obtained during the application process. Providers may serve eligible individuals statewide or limit services to specific counties and may offer services for SSI, SSDI, or both programs.

Compensation is structured per approved case: $1,000 to $5,000 depending on service level (Initial Application, Reconsideration, Administrative Law Judge Decision, or Appeals Council Action). Mileage reimbursement is available at current IRS rates up to $100 per case, and medical or vital records reimbursement is capped at $250 per approved case. Payment is contingent upon client approval for benefits; providers receive no payment if an application is denied.

Contract services commence January 1, 2027 and continue through December 31, 2028. The state reserves the right to extend for up to three additional one-year periods through 2031. Multiple awards are anticipated. Contractors must carry general commercial liability insurance of $2 million per occurrence and professional liability insurance of $2 million per claim, maintain E-Verify certification for contracts exceeding $50,000, and comply with workers' compensation and criminal background check requirements.

Proposals are scored on a 1,000-point scale: Qualifications and Experience (200 points), Service Description (250 points), Acceptance of the Work Plan (250 points), and Budget and Payment Terms (300 points). A mandatory Responders' Conference was held September 16, 2026. Written questions were due September 22, 2026; Questions and Answers were posted September 30, 2026. Anticipated selection date is November 5, 2026.