Supplemental security income can be a lifeline for families with disabled children. In order to qualify your child for SSI benefits, you’ll have to meet certain guidelines. Then, if you’re eligible, you could start receiving monthly checks.

Qualifying for SSI for Children

To be eligible, your child must not be married or the head of your household, and either:

• Under 18 years of age
• Under 22 years of age and regularly attending school

There is no minimum age requirement to start receiving SSI benefits. According to the Social Security Administration, the child must have “medically determinable physical or mental impairment or impairments which result in marked and severe functional limitations.” They need to also have these impairments for at least 12 months or the impairments must result in death; SSI is not for children with temporary disabilities. When a child turns 18, then the Social Security Administration will evaluate impairments by looking at the definition of disability for adults.

SSI criteria is notably stringent and tough. The child’s impairment must match or equal in severity a list of disabilities that the SSA has put together. In addition, a qualified medical professional must submit proof and evidence of the disability.

Income Eligibility for SSI

There are different income requirements to receive SSI for children. The SSA has a chart that you can glance over to see if you qualify. Essentially, if you’re in a two-parent household, you cannot make more than $4,492 in earned income per month if you’re trying to qualify for one child, or $2,422 if you’re both earning unearned income (income not related to employment).

Working With Schott Law

If you need help with SSI benefits for your child, Schott Law is here for you. Maggie Schott is an SSDI & SSI lawyer serving Washington and Idaho. Contact us now at (509) 328-5789 to start your application.