Baltimore Childhood Disability Information
Provided by Experienced Baltimore Disability Benefits Representatives
At the National Benefits Center, Inc., we understand the difficulty associated with raising a disabled child. We understand the Baltimore social security benefits available for children with disabilities, and we are available to explain the process to you. You can contact us at any time. We are willing to help you.
SSI Benefits for Children with Disabilities
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available to disabled, elderly and blind individuals who have low income and limited resources. Children are eligible for SSI benefits if they (1) meet the definition of disability for children and (2) if their income and resources fall within the limits for eligibility. For purposes of determining a child’s eligibility, the income and resources of the child’s family members living in the same household are considered.
Determining Childhood Disability
To be considered disabled (and therefore eligible for SSI), a child must meet the following requirements:
- The child must have a physical or mental condition that severely limits the child’s ability to function, and
- The condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death
If your child is disabled and meets the income eligibility requirements, he or she will be granted SSI disability benefits. It may take your local state agency up to five months to make a determination of disability. However, if your child is suffering from certain medical conditions, SSI payments will be made immediately and for up to six months while a disability determination is being made. Such conditions include:
- HIV
- Cerebral palsy
- Muscular dystrophy
- Down syndrome
- Total blindness or deafness
- Birth weight less than two pounds, 10 ounces
- ADHD
- Depression
*If you do not see your disability condition on this list, contact me. You may still be entitled to benefits.
If your child is deemed to have a disability but the condition is expected to improve over time, the law requires that your child’s medical condition be reviewed once every three years. If your child is receiving SSI payments because of a low birth weight, his or her medical record must be reviewed before his or her first birthday unless the medical condition is not expected to improve by age one. The Social Security Administration may review your child’s disability, even if your child’s condition is not expected to improve.
What Happens Once My Child Turns 18?
Once a child reaches the age of 18, the adult eligibility rules for receiving SSI benefits apply. If your child was receiving SSI payments before he or she turned 18, a review must be conducted within one year of his or her 18th birthday. If your child was not eligible for SSI as a minor because you or your spouse had income or resources that exceeded the limitations, your child may be eligible for SSI benefits once he or she reaches his or her 18th birthday.
Assistance Obtaining Benefits for Childhood Disabilities
If your child is disabled and you think he or she may be eligible for SSI or DIB benefits, we are available to help you with the application process. Contact a disability representative at the National Benefits Center, Inc. today for assistance with your child’s Baltimore Social Security disability benefits.
