Supplemental Security Income and Your Child’s Disability Benefits

The qualification for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is contingent on income and resources. In a child's case, the Social Security Administration looks at the income and resources of the child and their family members living in the same household to make their decision.

If the child's income and resources or that of the immediate family members are found to be above the allowable limit they may not be eligible for SSI benefits. The methods for determining income and resources vary by state so it's best to consult a New York disability lawyer for assistance.

If a child is earning income of their own the amount earned in a month must be less than $1,000 as of 2010. They also must meet the criteria for disability, which includes a physical or mental condition that severely limits their activity and has lasted or is expected to last at least a year or result in death.

Decisions for Social Security disability benefits can take months, but there are some conditions that may qualify for immediate SSI payments.

These conditions include: 

• HIV infection;
• cerebral palsy;
• Down syndrome;
• complete blindness;
• severe mental retardation (age 7 or older);
• complete deafness; and
• low birth weight (below 2 lbs. 10 oz.) 

Babies who receive SSI benefits due to low birth weight must undergo a disability review by age 1 to evaluate continued need. Children receiving SSI benefits under 18 years old whose conditions are expected to improve will be required to undergo a review every 3 years.

There is much more to know about filing for Social Security disability benefits for a disabled child. As a parent or guardian, you may help file on their behalf, but it's always best to also have a New York Social Security disability lawyer on your side to provide guidance in the claim process. 

Contacting a New York Social Security Disability Lawyer 

Before you file your child's Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a New York Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building your child's disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.