SSI for Children with Disabilities: What Parents Should Know

Disabled children younger than age 18 may qualify to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if they meet the requirements set by the Social Security Administration. The requirements are determined by two categories: the child’s disability and the child’s household income.

The amount of the federal SSI monthly payments does not differ from state to state; some states pay an additional amount called an Optional State Supplement.

SSI Requirements for Income and Resources

When determining a child’s income and resources, the Social Security Administration considers not only the child, but also any parents of the child living in the child’s household. This applies to children both living at home and those who are away at school but return home and are subject to parental control.

If a child is in a medical facility paid for by Medicaid, SSI payments are limited to $30 a month. If a child earns more than $1,090/month they will not be eligible for SSI. This amount is applicable for 2015 and 2016.

SSI Requirements for Disability (child must meet all of the following requirements):

• The child must have a mental and/or physical condition that results in “marked and severe functional limitations.”
• The child’s condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, more than one year; or must be expected to result in death.

How to Apply

Applicants must provide a detailed description of the child’s medical condition and the affects it has on their ability to function. Doctors, teachers, therapists and other professionals familiar with the child’s condition should also provide information.

Please provide any of your child’s medical or school records to help speed the process. It can take three to five months for the state to qualify a child; however, immediate payments can be given for up to six months for some very limited medical conditions. If the child is approved, the Social Security Administration requires the child’s medical condition to be reviewed periodically to verify that the child is still disabled.