The Social Security Administration, in cooperation with state agencies, pays benefits to children with disabilities. Under the Supplemental Security Income program, a child is eligible if there is a medically documented physical or mental impairment that severely impairs normal function and is expected to last at least one year or to be fatal. The SSA takes a family's household income and resources into consideration when determining eligibility. SSI payments may continue after a child is grown, but will be reduced or ended if his income reaches a threshold amount, which may be adjusted from year to year.
Step 1
Call the Social Security Administration or contact their local office before you begin filling out forms to see if your child may be eligible for SSI. You'll need an estimate of your family income and assets. You can call the SSA toll free at 800-772-1213. For TTY calls use 800-325-0778.
Step 2
Collect the required documents and information related to your child's impairment. You must provide the SSA with the names and contact information of all doctors who have seen your child in the last year. Include the dates of visits and/or treatment and the medications your child takes. You also need contact information for your child's school, including the names of teachers and counselors. Obtain a copy of your child's Individualized Family Services Plan or Individualized Education Plan from the school. You will also need contact information for any social service agencies that provide services related to your child's disability.
Step 3
Make a list of your family assets, such as bank accounts, real estate and investments. You will need documentation stating the value of these assets. The SSA also requires proof of your family income, such as W-2 forms, income tax returns and recent pay stubs.
Step 4
Complete a Child Disability Report. This form may be completed and submitted online at ssa.gov. At the end of the Child Disability Report, you must provide the name of your child's doctor(s) and give permission for them to release information to the SSA regarding your child's medical condition and treatment.
Step 5
Make an appointment to fill out an application for SSI benefits. As of 2010, this required a visit in person to your local Social Security office. The form was not available online. You may call SSA directly using the phone numbers in Step 1 to make an appointment anywhere in the United States.
Step 6
Take all of the information and documents you've compiled with you when you go to your appointment at your local Social Security office. Bring your child's Social Security number as well. You will be interviewed and assisted in completing the application. It may take several weeks for Social Security to make a decision as to whether your child will receive SSI benefits.
Tips and Warnings
- SSI pays money directly to children with disabilities, or their parents. In addition, many children who qualify for SSI are also eligible for health care coverage through Medicaid or programs like the State Children's Health Insurance Program. Contact the Social Security Administration for information on these programs.
Things You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Medical information
- Family financial records
- School information
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