Sometimes children can qualify for disability benefits. For example, a young man named Randy S. has been deaf since birth. Now age 6, he needs therapy and special equipment to function at school and home. He and his family survive on a very low income. They need help to handle his autism. Another child, Angela W., is not disabled, but her mother is on disability because of congestive heart failure. Her family learned Angela may be eligible for benefits based on her mother’s disability benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly payments to children with physical or mental condition. Income and resources do not exceed eligibility requirements. Income for family members living in household are included. SSI payments can be made if child is living in a medical facility. However, the payment is only $30 a month.
To be eligible, children must meet the following criteria:
- Cannot be working or earning more than $1,180 a month if not blind, $1,970 if blind. (2018 figures);
- Must have a physical condition, mental condition, or combination of disorders that cause noticeable and severe functional limitations.
- Condition(s) must be expected to last for more than a year or result in death or must be expected to last for 12 months or have already lasted for 12 months.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Some adults are able to receive this benefit if they have a disability that started before they reached age 22. They are eligible based on their parents’ Social Security earnings, not their own.
Social Security requires two things for a disabled adult to receive this “child’s” benefit:
- At least one parent is receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits; or
- At least one parent is deceased but worked enough to qualify for Social Security benefits.
Other factors involve whether the adult received Social Security benefits before age 18.
Whether You’re Applying for Yourself or a Child, You Need Help.
The Social Security Disability Insurance application process can be long and frustrating. You need someone on your side who understands the system.
Also, keep in mind that children with disabilities, or adults disabled before age 18, may be eligible for more than one benefit.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have helped many clients receive the disability benefits they deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
