Social Security Disability Benefits For Children

Caring for a child with disabilities can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. The good news is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children. SSI provides monthly payments to help caregivers provide basic needs for disabled children. These payments are available to those who have limited income and other resources.

Who is Eligible?

These benefits are available to children under the age of 18 who have a qualifying disability. A qualifying disability meets Social Security’s definition if it meets both of the following conditions:

• The child must have a serious physical or mental condition that limits their activities.
• The medical condition must have lasted, or expected to last, a minimum of one year or result in death.

Keep in mind that just because you or the doctor believes your child meets these requirements does not mean they do based on SSA guidelines. A decision will be made based on the information given. A state agency will also request information from medical and school sources. They may also interview people familiar with the child’s condition. In some cases, the state agency may require a test for the child.

The Application Process

Before you can start the application process, you must first fill out the online Child Disability Report. This report collects information about the child’s condition and how it affects their everyday life. This report takes about an hour to complete.

You must also sign a form that allows the SSA to request information from the child’s doctor. This will allow the SSA to make a decision about your claim.

Once the report has been submitted, the SSA will call you within 3-5 business days. You will work with the SSA agent to review the completed Child Disability Report, discuss your income situation, and then start the SSI application process.

The Decision 

The decision by the SSA will come in the mail. It can take up to five months to receive a decision on your child’s claim. However, the SSA may contact you via phone before then to ask questions.

If the claim is approved, you will receive monthly benefit payments for your child. If the claim is denied, you won’t receive benefits unless you appeal and get approved. Once you receive a denial, you have 60 days to file an appeal. The letter will provide you with relevant information about this process.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits aren’t limited to adults. Children of any age can receive them as well, provided they meet certain requirements.

Do you think your child may qualify? If so, be aware that the approval process is strict. It may be a good idea to seek legal help from White Plains Social Security disability lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon. Our team can help you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling 914-294-2145.

Source:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply-child.html