Social Security
Social Security provides a monthly income to adults whose disability impedes their ability to work as well as to children with Autism who qualify medically if they have substantial functional limits. There are several programs under the Social Security umbrella and the medical criteria are different for children and adults; more information can be found on the Social Security Administration website.
Qualification for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is based on medical standards and income. SSI provides monthly cash payments to help meet the basic needs of children who have a physical or mental disability or who are blind. If you care for a child or teenager with a disability and have limited income, savings, and other resources, your child may be eligible for SSI. Individuals who are denied SSI based on medical criteria may appeal the decision.
For both children and adults, SSI imposes strict income and asset limitations which cannot be appealed. Under a process called deeming, the individual’s medical records and income are reviewed. A portion of the family’s income is considered for a child under 18, but once the child turns 18, only their income and assets are used. You may find more information about this process as well as current income levels on the Social Security Administration website.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program where a child or adult with a disability may qualify under a retired, disabled, or deceased parent’s work record. SSDI usually translates into higher benefits, however, there are some income restrictions. An adult with a disability who has enough work credits on his own and then stops working for reasons related to their disability or who works under a certain income threshold may qualify on their work record.
- To apply for all these programs, go to www.ssa.gov or you may visit your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office in person. You can find your local office on the SSA website or call SSA at 800-772-1213 to set up an appointment.
- It is a good time to get a state-issued ID card for the person who is applying at the Ohio BMV.
One reason social security claims are denied is failure to provide enough information.
Bring as much documentation as possible to your appointment. This would include your child’s diagnostic report, therapy progress notes, your child’s latest IEP, school evaluations, list of the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all your child’s doctors and therapists as well as proof of income. You will also want to review the Child Disability or Adult Disability Starter Kit on the SSA website to get a checklist of items you will need. Before applying, you can attend an educational seminar that will help you prepare the application. Contact ASGA if you need assistance locating a seminar.
