As a parent, you want the best life for your child and will do anything to ensure it as they grow up. However, when they’re disabled, there is a unique set of challenges to address and overcome. Fortunately, you are not alone, and help is available to your family.
Disabled children under 18 with limited income and resources in their household could be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to help meet their basic needs. Here’s what you need to know before applying for SSI on behalf of your child.
Does My Child Qualify for SSI?
First, you must be familiar with the SSA’s definition of disability. Your child is considered disabled by the SSA if they:
- Have a physical or mental condition that very seriously limits their activities, and
- The disability must have lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Second, you must understand the requirements for SSI for a child.To qualify for SSI, your child must be under 18 and enrolled in elementary or secondary school. In addition, they must live at home with a parent or guardian.
In this case, the SSA may consider a portion of the parent’s income and resources available to the child. This also includes stepparents and adoptive parents. The SSA still considers parental income if the child is temporarily away at school and returns during holidays, weekends, or for summer break and is subject to parental control. The SSA then deducts from the income of the parents and the other children living in the home. Once it subtracts the deductions, it uses the remaining amount to determine if the child meets the SSI income and resource requirements to receive monthly payments.
Tips for Applying for SSI for Your Child
As the parent of a disabled child, there are actions you can take to help ensure your best chance at your child’s approval for Supplemental Security Income benefits. These include:
- Engaging with their school. Receive and retain statements and reports from teachers and ensure that your child utilizes special services through a 504 Plan and/or an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Your child’s school is vital in helping build and strengthen their SSI claim.
- Taking them to a specialist. For example, utilize psychiatric and psychological services if your child has a mental impairment. Keep track of appointments and retain records, such as psychiatric evaluations.
- Consulting a Social Security Disability attorney. A skilled Social Security lawyer will handle every part of your child’s SSI claim, including assistance with the Child Disability Report, compiling all documents and records, engaging with the SSA, and ensuring that you meet all deadlines. Most of all, they will advocate for you and your child, protecting their rights every step of the way, so your child receives the life-changing benefits they’re entitled to by law.
Your Child’s SSI Claim is Important to Us
At Kerr Robichaux & Carroll, our SSI attorneys have extensive experience securing child disability benefits for those who need it, making a tremendous difference in their lives.
We know the ins and outs of the SSA and will walk you through the claims process from beginning to end for your security, stability, and peace of mind. No matter how many questions you have regarding the SSI process for your child, we have the answers. No case is too tough for us. So speak with us and get started on your application for free – we won’t get paid until you do.
Contact us today by submitting a form below or calling our office at 503-255-9092 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.