Client needs are assessed using categories called factors. Agencies typically assess clients to measure their current situation in relation to one or more factors. The Self-Sufficiency Assessment has the following nine initial factors:
- Employment - Gathers information on basic work experience, skills, and employment barriers.
- Education - Gathers information on education level, training or skills, and barriers that may affect employment.
- Child Care - Identifies a child care need that may hinder a client's ability to participate in work.
- Transportation - Identifies a transportation need that should be resolved to help a client achieve self-sufficiency.
- Housing - Identifies a housing need that should be resolved to help a client achieve Self-Sufficiency.
- Substance Abuse - Identifies a possible substance abuse need that may require further assessment or treatment.
- Physical Health - Gathers information on any physical health needs that may limit a client's ability to work or perform daily activities.
- Mental Health - Identifies a possible mental health need that may require further assessment or treatment.
- Domestic Violence - Identifies a possible domestic violence situation that may threaten a client's safety and well-being.