When a Florida parent has a child who has an illness, injury or condition that makes it difficult for them to be cared for and function, Social Security disability is a consideration that should be taken very seriously. Before moving forward, however, it’s important to understand the rules that are in place for there to be disability benefits provided for children.
Supplemental Security Income is available for parents who have children who are disabled. Those with an income that is considered low and for people who are 65-years-old or older and have certain disabilities are eligible for SSI. This option is also available for children under the age of 18 if there is a mental or physical disability or combination of conditions that meet the requirements laid out by the Social Security Administration. The family income must fall into a certain level to be eligible. The child’s income — if any — is also taken into account. For example, if a child is in a facility and receives insurance for the care, the SSI payment will be limited to $30 monthly.
There are certain requirements for there to be an SSI approval. The child cannot work and earn more than $1,090 each month for the current year. This amount generally changes on an annual basis. There must be a mental or physical condition or combination of these conditions that will be designated as resulting in “marked and severe functional limitations.” And the conditions must be disabling or can be disabling for a minimum of 12 months or end with the child’s death. Professionals such as doctors, therapists and teachers, among others will be asked to give information about the child and his or her condition. The case will then be reviewed by the SSA to see if the medical requirements are met.
It is possible that payments will be made immediately depending on the condition or illness the child has. For example, if there is HIV, complete blindness, complete deafness, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or other certain conditions, the payments might start as soon as possible. Considering the problems a family will face both personally and financially if they have a child with a disabling illness or conditions, Supplemental Security Income can be a welcome source of assistance to care for the child. Speaking to a legal professional can provide information as to how to pursue these benefits under the federal regulations of the SSA.
