If your child is disabled, then your child might be eligible to receive disability benefits to cover the costs of living. Exploring the eligibility criteria is crucial for figuring out whether your child could qualify for benefits. This can also help you prepare for the disability benefits application process. Feel free to ask a Pennsylvania disability lawyer if you have any questions or concerns about how this works.
The eligibility criteria for child disability benefits involve meeting the definition of a disability and the financial criteria. These criteria vary depending on your child’s disability severity, financial circumstances, and age. For children under the age of 18, you will want to explore the eligibility requirements for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
To be considered eligible for any disability benefits under the Social Security Administration (SSA), your child’s condition must meet the SSA definition of a disability. The SSA defines a disability as a medical condition that is severe enough to cause significant limitations in daily functioning.
In other words, the physical or mental health condition must be severe enough to interfere with a child’s ability to engage in daily activities. However, this condition must not be temporary. The disability or medical condition must be expected to last at least one year or longer. One of the only exceptions is if the medical condition is expected to lead to an early death.
Eligibility for SSI itself depends on monthly income. A child must not make more than a certain level of income each month. This amount varies each year. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), a child must be an adult who has had the disability since childhood. Other criteria include:
Consider contacting a lawyer to discover other ways your child might become eligible for disability benefits.
Being prepared for the child disability benefits interview might save you time and stress. This may also speed up the process by making sure you have all the information required. The most important documents to bring with you include proof of birth for your child, proof of worker’s marriage, proof of citizenship, and any forms for your child’s income if applicable.
Find out and fill out any forms required by the SSA. These vary depending on whether you are applying for SSI or SSDI. Be prepared to answer questions about your identifying information, your child’s identifying information, criminal history, work history, and finances. Feel free to consult with a lawyer to figure out other ways to prepare for the interview.
Going through the application process for disability benefits can be stressful. All you have to do is ask a Pennsylvania disability lawyer about your options for disability benefits. Contact Edelstein & Nelson by dialing (800) 300-0909 for a consultation today about what steps are involved in this process. Our legal team is ready to help you find ways to increase your chances of receiving disability benefits for your child.