When parents have a child with disabilities, they may be unsure of what benefits they are eligible for and how to obtain them. Children are able to apply for Supplemental Security Income, which considers the income of the parents as well as the child’s income, if applicable. However, if SSI believes that income for the child or members of the child’s household is too high, they may deny the application for SSI. In order for the child to be considered eligible as an SSI recipient, they must meet the following qualifications:
- The child must not be earning more than $1170 each month
- The child must have a disability (either physical, mental, or both) that seriously limits the activities that child can do
- The disabling condition must last for at least 1 year or be expected to result in death
Once the child’s application for SSI payments has been submitted, the Disability Determination Services will assess the child’s medical information to determine whether they are eligible. It is important to note that this decision happens at the state level and can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months for a final decision regarding the disability. However, there are some qualifying conditions that may result in SSI deciding it is appropriate to make payments immediately while the state’s decision is pending. These include the following disabilities:
- Total blindness
- Total deafness
- HIV, if it is combined with another impairment
- Cerebral palsy
- Down syndrome
- Birth weight under 2 pounds 10 ounces
- Muscular dystrophy
If you believe your child’s SSI application was wrongfully denied, contact our firm and we would be happy to discuss your case.
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If you require experienced legal representation for a matter of Family Law, Supplemental Security Income, Medical Malpractice, Social Security Disability, or Legal Malpractice, Siragusa Law Firm is here to help. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your case.