What Benefits Are Disabled Children Eligible For?

July 31, 2013

For many Americans, a mental or physical condition leaves them unable to work and with limited resources for income. A large number of these individuals have suffered from their condition since childhood as well. This leaves many wondering, “What government benefits, if any, are available to children with disabilities?”

Regulations only allow for individuals who are over the age of 18-years-old and who have worked a certain amount of time to receive Social Security Disability Benefits. The only way a child can receive such benefits is if they had a parent who was disabled and that parent dies.

Children may be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the federal government though. The requirements for a child to be awarded such benefits include:

• The child must not work and cannot earn more than $1040 per month
• The child must suffer from a condition that places them with “marked and severe functional limitations”
• The condition must persist for at least 12-months or put the child at risk of death

The Social Security Administration released a statement saying an application for SSI benefits could be filed online or in person at a local office. However, the Supplemental Security Income Attorneys with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin explain that the documentation needed and process of filing such a claim can be quite complex. That is why the firm suggests discussing your case with an attorney if you are considering applying for SSI benefits.