Social Security: Disability Benefits for Children

Most people are aware of the importance of social security. Some are not mindful, however, that certain benefits can extend to their family members, particularly their children. According to Daily Finance, of the approximately 58 million Americans who apply for and have Social Security, around 6% (or around 3.4 million) beneficiaries are disabled children.

Children with disabilities can apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to receive monthly benefits depending on their disability. The amount they can receive from Social Security depends on their situation. For instance, children of diseased workers often have more generous dividends compared to children of retired workers.

To be eligible for these benefits, the child’s infirmities should pass the definition of child disability. The parents’ income must also be within the allotted limits. At any rate, SSI is available for disabled children until they turn 18.

Meanwhile, adult disabled children (i.e. those aged 18 and above) can apply for monthly Social Security benefits, so long as they meet certain criteria. For instance, they must prove that: their disabilities began before age 22; either parent is insured under Social Security; and their medical condition is expected to continue for at least a year or else diagnosed as terminal.