SSI Disability Benefits For Children In Athens, Tennessee
Disability can strike at any age. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a public benefit program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to disabled minors in families with limited income and resources. However, the SSI application process for children is complicated, and many claims are unfairly denied.
A child SSI benefits lawyer can help your child get the disability benefits they deserve. Douglas W. Hutson, Attorney at Law, has over 40 years of experience as a child disability benefits attorney, helping individuals and families in need in Athens and throughout East Tennessee successfully navigate the SSI application process and any necessary appeals.
When Can A Child Qualify For SSI Disability Benefits?
Children under 18 (or under 22, if still a student) can qualify for SSI disability benefits so long as they are either blind or have a qualifying disability, such as:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Cerebral palsy
- Cystic fibrosis
- Severe asthma
- Juvenile diabetes
- Muscular dystrophy
- Down Syndrome
- Deafness
- Severe low birth weight
SSI is a needs-based benefit, so the child’s income and resources must be below the current applicable limits to qualify. If the child lives with their parents, a portion of the parents’ income and resources will be “deemed” to the child when determining financial eligibility.
How Does The SSI Application Process For Children Differ From The Process For Adults?
The SSI application process for children is different from that for adults. Rather than focusing on the ability to work, disability evaluations for children focus on a child’s functional limitations when it comes to age-appropriate activities. In other words, a child must be compared to other children their age to see if they have any marked limitations.
Typically, SSA looks for problems in the child’s ability to learn and apply new information, focus their attention, complete tasks and interact with peers. They will also evaluate the child’s fine and gross motor skills and ability to care for their own needs, as appropriate. SSI evaluations for children rely heavily on school records, parental reports and information from caregivers and teachers, as well as medical records.
Once a disabled child turns 18 years of age, they must be evaluated under the adult rules to see if they still qualify for SSI benefits.
Let Us Help Your Child Obtain SSI Benefits
Without an experienced East Tennessee child disability attorney, a simple filing error or incomplete medical record could cost your child years of vital support. At Douglas W. Hutson, Attorney at Law, we understand the local medical landscape and the specific requirements of the SSA offices in our region. We take the burden of the paperwork and the legal technicalities off your shoulders so you can focus on your child’s care.
Your consultation is free, and we work on a contingency basis—which means we don’t get paid unless we win your child’s benefits. Call us today at 423-453-3021 or use the online contact form to reach out.