Does your child have a disability or serious medical condition? If so, your child may be eligible for social security benefits. Qualifying for social security benefits can be a life-changing event in a child’s life. Many parents of children with disabilities or special needs struggle to make ends meet while paying for their child’s medical bills. If you are approved for social security benefits on behalf of your child, you will receive monthly cash benefits that will help you provide the best way possible for your child. If you believe your child is eligible for social security disability benefits, it’s important to consult with a SSI claims for kids attorney to get started.
Consult With SSI Claims for Kids Lawyer in Los Angeles
Applying for social security benefits is a complex process and can be overwhelming. Some social security disability lawyers don’t take cases for children because proving a disability can be more difficult. At Disability Advocates Group, our law firm takes pride in helping children obtain the disability benefits they deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation to learn more about whether your child qualifies for benefits. If so, we can help you submit your application.
The Two Types of Social Security Benefits for Children
The Social Security Administration provides two different benefits: Social Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Children under 18 years of age who meet all of the additional requirements are eligible for SSI benefits. Children can also qualify for SSDI benefits, also called a child’s benefit.
SSDI benefits are available for children of a disabled person under the age of 18 and adults who were disabled before they turned 22 years old. The child must prove that his or her parent qualifies as disabled or retired and receives SSDI or Social Security retirement payments.
Supplemental Security Benefits for Children
Most children apply for SSI benefits. The SSI benefits program pays out benefits to people with low incomes, limited resources, and individuals 65 and older. When a child is under 18, he or she may qualify for these benefits if they meet specific conditions set forth by the Social Security Administration. The child will also need to prove that his or her income and resources are below a specified amount. Qualifying for SSI benefits as a child will depend on multiple factors, including:
- Are the resources and income of any family members living in the child’s house low enough?
- Does your child live at home or reside at school but return home to be under your control?
- Is your child’s medical condition severe enough?
How is SSI determined for a child?
In California, a child’s SSI eligibility hinges on two main factors: disability severity and limited income/resources. To qualify, the child must have a medical condition(s) severely limiting their age-appropriate activities, lasting at least a year or expected to be fatal. Additionally, the household income and resources must fall within specific limits. While deeming applies (considering some parent/stepparent income), California also has additional resources and income disregards specific to children.
Proving the Severity of Your Child’s Medical Condition
One of the most challenging aspects of obtaining benefits for your child involves proving the severity of your child’s disability. You will need to prove that your child’s condition limits his or her activities. The condition must be disabling or expected to disable your child for at least 12 months, or the condition must be expected to result in your child’s death. The Social Security Administration uses a guidebook, commonly referred to as the “Blue Book,” to determine which medical conditions qualify as a disability. We can help you determine whether your child’s condition is listed in the Blue Book. Even if your child’s condition isn’t listed in the Blue Book, your child can still qualify for SSI benefits. You will need to show that your child’s medical condition is just as severe as other conditions listed in the Blue Book.
Our law firm can help you gather all of the medical records and evidence you will need to prove that your child’s medical condition or disability qualifies him or her for SSI benefits. We will help you gather information from doctors, teachers, therapists, and other professionals about your child’s condition.
Can a child get SSI for ADHD and anxiety?
While ADHD and anxiety alone may not qualify a child for SSI in California, a child could be eligible if their combined impairments significantly limit their ability to function in major life activities like attending school, making friends, or caring for themselves. The Social Security Administration (SSA) would assess the severity of their conditions and their impact on daily life. Consulting with a disability attorney familiar with California SSI regulations is crucial to determining eligibility and navigating the application process.
Applying for SSI Benefits for Your Kids
After we thoroughly review your case and gather information, we will complete and submit your chart. We will send your application to the appropriate Social Security office. They will send your application to the Disability Determination Services office. A claims analyst will review your application and request any additional medical or school records when necessary. They may request that your child complete a medical evaluation paid for by the SSA. The process can take up to five months. Unfortunately, many first-time applications are denied. If your application has been denied, we can help you appeal.
Recovering SSI Benefits Immediately
The Social Security Administration recognizes that certain types of disabilities are severe enough to require immediate SSI payments. If your child has any of the following medical conditions, he or she can apply to receive SSI payments right away. These payments will continue for up to six months while the office determines whether your child qualifies for disability. These conditions include:
- A severe intellectual disability and a child over the age of 4
- Total blindness
- Muscular dystrophy
- Cerebral palsy
- Total deafness
- Symptomatic HIV infection
- Down syndrome
- Birth weight below 2 pounds, 10 ounces
Contact a SSI Claims for Kids Lawyer Today
If your child has one of the medical conditions or disabilities mentioned above, or you think your child may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, we can help. At Disability Advocates Group, our experienced Social Security disability lawyers have helped thousands of clients obtain the benefits they deserve. We understand that applying for benefits is a complicated process, and we will guide you step-by-step through the application process. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.