Can a Disabled Child Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

Is my disabled child eligible for Social Security benefits

Children who suffer from severe physical or intellectual impairments such as cancer, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or total vision or hearing loss may qualify for (SSI). This benefit program, administered but not funded by Social Security, makes monthly cash payments to low-income people who are blind, disabled or over 65. The child’s disability must be expected to last for at least 12 months or end in death. Social Security maintains a and medical criteria that apply specifically to evaluating claims involving children. Childhood eligibility for SSI generally ends at age 18, although a person under 22 who is still regularly attending elementary or secondary school may be considered a “child” for benefit purposes. Family financial resources can play a role in determining whether a child qualifies for SSI and the level of benefit. Thee Social Security Administration (SSA) decides eligibility on a case-by-case basis, looking at each family’s . The criteria are lengthy and vary widely. Not all types of income and assets are counted, and the rules may differ depending on where you live, as some states to federal SSI payments. If you believe your child might qualify for Supplemental Security Income, you may want to start by to discuss your situation. You can also gather information from Social Security’s publication and its fact sheet on . You can begin an application online by filing a , but you’ll have to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 or visit your to complete the process. Local offices after being closed to walk-in traffic for more than two years due to the , but Social Security recommends calling in advance and scheduling an appointment to avoid long waits. Keep in mind
Once a disabled child turns 18, Social Security will consider whether he or she can remain in the SSI program, based on the different medical and financial criteria for adult beneficiaries. The child also may be eligible to switch at 18 to (SSDI), subject to Social Security’s for adult disability claims. This type of SSDI payment is still considered a child’s benefit because it is paid on a parent’s work record. The child need not have worked to qualify. Updated April 8, 2022

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