Only 14 percent of low-income kids with disabilities receive SSI

Raising a child with a disability in the Midwest is no easy task. Parents of children with disabilities face a number of challenges in order to provide their children with the best quality of life possible. One undertaking that is often much more difficult than it ought to be is obtaining federal disability benefits.

Many children with disabilities in the Midwest are eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits. SSI is a disability need-based program that is designed to provide disability benefits for those who have never worked or have not earned enough work credits to obtain Social Security disability insurance benefits.

SSI benefits are only available to children if their family income and assets do not exceed certain levels. However, many children and families who do meet the SSI requirements are denied benefits.

According to a recent news report, a mere 14 percent of low-income families with children with disabilities currently receive SSI. The National Organization of Social Security Claimant’s Representatives also reported that in 2012 less than one-quarter of all children with disabilities in the U.S. received SSI.

There are a number of complex factors that lead six in 10 child SSI applicants to be denied benefits.

A recent news report chronicled the case of a young girl who suffered paralysis in her arm due to a birth injury. The girl, now 2, cannot change her own clothes, climb stairs or be potty-trained due to the injury. Her parents bring in only $17,000 annually, which is far below the poverty level, but this family has been denied SSI benefits for reasons that are not clear.

This family is not alone, as there are many SSI claims that are turned down when, in fact, the child and the family are eligible for benefits.

When families are considering applying for SSI benefits for a child with disabilities, it can be beneficial to seek advice. After receiving a denial, it is also wise to seek a disability representative regarding filing an appeal. Contact Disability Professionals Llc regarding questions and dedicated representation.