UniForms is software designed to facilitate access and form completion of federal forms used within the Social Security Administration (SSA). UniForms is both a Web application and a service to internal SSA applications who need access to federal forms. For more information on UniForms, see UniForms Help Page.

Disability Determination Services (DDS) may access disability related UniForms through the Disability Case Processing System (DCPS). Completed UniForms can be uploaded to the Certified Electronic Folder (CEF) by selecting the “EF” button at the top of the page.

NOTE: If a UniForm is created for a CEF but the official folder is the paper Modular Disability Folder (MDF), (e.g., Electronic Disability Collect System (EDCS) exclusion claim), print the UniForm and file it in the official paper folder.

Forms incorporated in DCPS, contain OMB approved form language. Documentation that is completed in DCPS becomes part of the Disability Determination Explanation (DDE) uploaded into the CEF.

UniForms, and OMB approved forms incorporated in electronic tools, such as DCPS, are electronically signed using the “SIGN” button located in the signature field. The “SIGN” button produces an approved electronic signature, in an italicized font, of the user who is logged on to the workstation. Electronically signed UniForms, and forms incorporated into electronic tools, such as DCPS, do not require a handwritten signature.

NOTE: The UniForm and DCPS electronic signature utility is approved for SSA and DDS internal use only. Electronic forms requiring an external party’s signature, such as the claimant or an appointed representative, must be printed, signed, and scanned into the CEF.

Only use handwritten signatures when there is a systems limitation that prevents the user from electronically signing the UniForm. The “TEXT” button located in the signature field on a UniForm allows the user to key in a name; however, keying a name in the TEXT field does not constitute an “official” signature. When you use the “TEXT” button to enter a name on a UniForm, you must print the form and a handwritten signature must be obtained. After completing the handwritten signature, scan or fax the UniForm into the CEF.

NOTE: The handwritten signature section does not apply to forms incorporated into electronic tools, such as DCPS. DCPS only has the capability to accept approved electronic signatures.

The FO may use signature proxy to attest that the claimant intended to sign the SSA-820-BK and SSA-821-BK (see GN 00201.015F.6.). For more information on signature proxy, see DI 81010.120.