Can Children with Disabilities Qualify for Supplemental Security Income?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a government program designed to help low-income people with disabilities make ends meet. It is a supplement to the recipient’s income in order to help them meet their daily needs. Children with disabilities are also eligible for SSI. Specifically, SSI is available to help parents cover the additional expenses that come with caring for a disabled child.

SSI Benefit Amounts for Disabled Children

Caring for a child with disabilities can be time consuming and financially demanding. Disabled children may require special clothing, care, food, equipment, and toys – all of which can be very expensive. Meanwhile, parents may be unable to work full-time hours because their child requires constant care. SSI helps bridge the gap between income and expenses for families with one or more disabled child. Families with disabled children can receive up to $794 per month, as of 2021, in Supplemental Security Income benefits to help cover caregiving costs.

SSI and Healthcare Benefits for Children

Children with disabilities who are eligible for SSI also automatically qualify for Medicaid, which will pay for the child’s basic healthcare needs, including prescription medications. While Medicaid covers the main medical costs for the child, the expenses don’t stop there.

Oftentimes, homes will need to be reconfigured to suit the needs of a disabled child, and they may require special learning materials and medical equipment. SSI and Medicaid can help cover the added expenses for families who need to meet their child’s needs.

Ask an Attorney for Help

Unfortunately, many families are denied the benefits that Supplemental Security Income can provide, because applying and reaching approval is a complicated process. The rules for proving disability and income eligibility are complex and confusing. Fortunately, families with disabled children can appeal the SSA’s decision on their SSI claim.

If you have been denied a claim, you can reach out to an experienced Social Security disability law firm to help with your appeal.

Likewise, if you are considering applying for Supplemental Security Income for your child with disabilities, you may want to contact an experienced disability law attorney to help you with the process.

An experienced disability advocate can help you navigate the complexities of the SSI application process and get your application approved. Appealing a denied SSI application can take months or even years in some cases. The best way to avoid a drawn-out SSI appeal is to have your application prepared properly the first time.