Parents in California who have a child suffering from a disability might not be able to shoulder the costs for care and treatment. It is with this in mind that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available. For those who believe they might be eligible, it is imperative to know the requirements when applying for SSI benefits for disabled children.
For children who are under the age of 18, it is possible qualify, if there is a mental or physical condition, or a combination of conditions that meet the definition of disability. There are also income requirements that must be met. The child’s income and the income of family members who are living in the same household are taken into consideration. If the amount earned in the household surpasses the amount that is allowed, the request for benefits will be denied. The monthly amount that a child can receive is limited to $30, if he or she is in a medical facility with health insurance paying the bills for the care.
For a child to be considered disabled, he or she must not be working or earning more than $1,090 per month. The earnings limits change on an annual basis, and the $1,090 is for 2015. The child must have a mental or physical condition or combination of the two that will result in “marked and severe functional limitations.” What this means is that the activities must be severely limited. The issues must disable the child or be expected to disable the child for a minimum of 12 months or be expected to end with his or her death.
When applying for SSI benefits, there must be detailed information provided regarding the child’s condition and how he or she will be affected by it when trying to perform daily activities. Treating physicians, teachers, and others involved in the child’s care on a professional basis will also be asked to disclose information to the Social Security Administration. For those who have a disabled child, there is a chance that Supplemental Security Income can help with the child’s care. Speaking to an attorney experienced in all aspects of Social Security disability can help to pursue benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, “Benefits For Children With Disabilities, page 4-6,” accessed on Sep. 1, 2015
