Disabled children in Oklahoma who qualify can receive disability benefits through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits
Children under the age of 18 can apply for SSI benefits if they meet certain requirements. First, the SSA must consider the child disabled. This means the child must have a mental and/or physical condition that seriously limits his or her daily activities. The condition is only considered disabling if it is either (1) expected to last for a minimum of 12 months, or (2) is expected to result in death. Some of the conditions that the SSA classifies as disabilities for children are Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, blindness, and deafness.
The SSA also considers a child’s income and financial resources before determining whether or not he or she qualifies for SSI benefits. The individual monthly income limit for SSI applicants in 2020 is $783.
Since most children are financially supported by their parents, the SSA looks at the parents’ income if the disabled child lives at home. The SSA will also review the parents’ income if the disabled child lives away from home, but comes home frequently or is still financially dependent on his or her parents. Then, the SSA will use a complex formula to determine if the parents’ income is too high for the child to qualify for benefits.
It’s important to note that a child is not eligible for benefits if he or she makes over $783 per month; however, if the parents make over $1,175 a month, this does not automatically disqualify the child. The formula that the SSA uses to determine whether the parents’ income disqualifies the child is far more complex.
Applying For SSI Benefits
Parents will need to submit the child’s medical records to the SSA in order to prove disability when applying for SSI benefits. The SSA may also need access to the child’s school records to determine the functional limitations his or her disability imposes upon the child. The SSA may also want to speak directly to the child’s healthcare providers and teachers so they can learn more about the disability.
If your child is disabled, it’s best to let an attorney assist with the application for SSI benefits. The attorneys at Armstrong & Vaught, P.L.C. will ensure the SSA has the information they need to approve your child’s application for disability benefits. Call us at (918) 582-2500 or toll-free at (800) 722-8880 or complete the simple form below for a free consultation with a skilled attorney.