Social Security Benefits for Children Part I

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) makes monthly payments to people with low income and limited resources, based on financial need.  Children under the age of 18 may qualify for SSI if certain requirements are met.  Here are some general guidelines in evaluating if your child or one you know of may be eligible for SSI.

• SSI is for children under the age of 18 (or under the age of 22 if regularly attending school)
• There is no minimum age requirement
• Criteria includes:
  • “medically determinable physical or mental impairment or impairments which result in marked and severe functional limitations; and
  • The condition(s) must have lasted or be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months or be expected to result in death”
  • www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-child-ussi.htm
• Social Security has developed a Compassionate Allowance initiative to target and help those most obviously disabled.  A complete list can be found at www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances
• Low Income and Limited Resources – SSI doesn’t just look at the child’s income and resources but his or her parents’ and/or family members within the household as well.  SSI annual limits for resources are $2000 for an individual or $3000 for a couple.  SSI has limits for income that can reduce the benefit amount as well.  www.ssa.gov/ssi has a list of income and resources excluded from the calculation to determine eligibility.

 If you think your child or one you know of meets these general guidelines, you should apply for SSI benefits.  At this time, Social Security does not have applications online.  You can either call 800-772-1213 or make an appointment at your local Social Security office.