Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial support to people with limited income and resources. You can also apply for SSI on behalf of your child if they meet the disability criteria. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will consider your income and resources if you live in the same household as your child.
This means your income may affect your child’s eligibility and the amount of benefits they may receive. While there are no fixed income limits, the SSA looks at many factors to decide how much of your income counts towards your child’s SSI eligibility. This process, called “deeming,” can be complex.
What is the “deeming” process?
The SSA assumes a portion of your income and resources are available to your child. However, they do not count all of your income – they only consider the amount of your income “deemed” – or assigned – to your child depending on various factors. This includes:
- Countable income, such as wages, Social Security benefits and pensions
- The number of children in your household, since calculations depend on family size
- Your child’s living arrangements and whether you live in the same household as them
- Your marital status, since the SSA may consider the income of both parents if they live with the child
There are certain types of income or benefits that the SSA does not count, such as food stamps, certain pensions and home energy assistance.
How is it different from California’s State Supplemental Payment (SSP)?
The SSP is an extra amount that the state adds to the federal SSI payment, partially in order to offset some of California’s high cost of living. This increases the total benefits your child can receive. Like the SSI, the SSP amount depends on factors like your child’s living situation and disability level.
If you’re planning to apply for SSI and SSP, it’s crucial to keep detailed records of your income, expenses and your child’s medical information. An attorney can also help you navigate the challenging process and receive the benefits you need.
This is for your child’s future
An SSI and SSP can help support your child’s needs, especially in managing long-term care and daily living expenses. However, the process of getting approved can be complicated. Professional legal counsel can make all the difference.
