The Social Security system can feel confusing and overwhelming, but when you’re trying to secure benefits for a child with disabilities, it is a crucial safety net. At Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, we understand how important these benefits can be for your family.
When Is a Child Eligible for Disability Benefits?
To qualify for Social Security benefits based on disability, a child must have a severe disability that began before age 22. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines “disability” as a physical or mental condition that seriously limits daily activities and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, if the child isn’t blind, they must not be earning more than $1,620 per month or not be working at all. If the child is blind, they must be earning no more than $2,700 per month or must not be working. To obtain a disability determination, the child must have conditions that produce severe functional limitations.
How Does Social Security Determine If Children Qualify for SSI?
To determine a child’s eligibility, the SSA reviews:
- Medical Evidence – Records from doctors, hospitals, therapists, and clinics that prove the child’s disability and show its impact on daily life.
- School Records – Special education plans, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or teacher observations that confirm the disability’s impact on the child’s education and development.
- Daily Functioning – Reports from parents or guardians, teachers, doctors, therapists, caregivers, and relatives that offer insight into the child’s condition.
How Do I Apply for SSI from the Social Security Administration (SSA)
A common question clients ask us is, “How do I apply for SSI for my child?” Here’s how to apply for disability for a child:
You can apply for your child’s benefits by calling the Social Security Administration’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your local Social Security office. You can also apply online, but you will need to complete the process either in person or over the phone.
The SSA requires specific documents to establish eligibility. Those documents include:
- Your child’s birth certificate or proof of adoption
- Proof of marriage to the child’s parent (when applying for stepchildren)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status
- Medical records and therapy notes
- School records evaluations
- W-2 forms or tax returns if your child had earnings
If you’re applying as the parent or guardian, you may need to show your own birth certificate and proof of citizenship. If you don’t have all the documents on hand, the SSA will help you obtain what’s missing.
How Can a Social Security Lawyer Help My Child Get Benefits?
An experienced Social Security disability lawyer can help you through the stressful situation of receiving SSI disability benefits for a disabled child by:
- Collecting and organizing medical and school records
- Obtaining statements from doctors and teachers
- Assisting with the application process
- Representing you in appeals if your claim is denied
Our attorneys can guide you through every step of the process and help you avoid critical errors that might result in your claim being denied.
Contact Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons for Help with Your Child’s SSI or SSDI Claim
The team at Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons has helped countless Oklahoma families secure Social Security disability benefits for minors. If you’re applying for the first time or have already been denied, we can help. Contact us today for your free consultation.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
