1. Understand the Eligibility Requirements for SSDI Benefits for Children

Children may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if a parent or guardian is receiving SSDI or Social Security Retirement Benefits. To qualify, the following must be met:

• Eligibility Based on Parent’s Work History: The child’s parent must have worked and paid into Social Security for a sufficient number of years to be eligible for SSDI benefits.
• Disability of the Parent: The parent receiving SSDI must have a medically determined disability that prevents them from working.
• Age and Dependency: The child must be under 18 years old, or 19 if still a full-time student. Children can continue receiving benefits beyond 18 if they become disabled before that age.

2. Determine the Disability Requirements for the Child

For the child to receive benefits, they need to meet certain disability criteria:

• Disability Status: The child must have a physical or mental condition that is severe enough to limit their ability to function.
• Age Limitations: If the child is over 18, they must have a disability that began before the age of 22, also known as a “childhood disability.”
• Medical Documentation: The child’s disability must be well-documented with medical evidence to support the claim.

3. Gather Necessary Documentation for the Child’s SSDI Application

To strengthen your child’s SSDI application, you will need to provide the following:

• Medical Records: Include the child’s doctor’s reports, medical history, hospital visits, lab results, and any other relevant health documents.
• School Records: For children with developmental or mental disabilities, school records and reports from special education teachers may help provide evidence of the disability.
• Parental Work History: You must provide your work history to show you have paid into Social Security and are eligible for benefits on behalf of the child.

4. Complete the SSDI Application for Your Child

Submitting an accurate application is key to securing benefits for your child:

• Apply Online or In Person: You can apply through the SSA’s website or visit a local SSA office. Both methods require providing the necessary documents and detailed information about your child’s condition.
• Be Thorough and Honest: Make sure to give complete and accurate details about the child’s medical condition and how it impacts their ability to function.
• Submit All Documents: Ensure you include all medical and supporting documentation to prevent delays in the review of your application.

5. Understand the SSA’s Evaluation Process for Children

The SSA evaluates a child’s disability claim in the following steps:

• Step 1: Age and Disability Evaluation: The SSA will verify that the child is under the required age (18 or 19 if still in school) and meets the definition of disability for children.
• Step 2: Severity of Disability: The condition must significantly limit the child’s ability to function in daily activities, including school and social situations.
• Step 3: Consideration of Special Medical Listings: The SSA may use their Listing of Impairments to see if the child’s condition automatically qualifies them for benefits.

6. Submit the Claim and Follow Up

Once you have completed the application, submit it and monitor its progress:

• Create an Online Account: You can track your child’s application status and receive updates or notifications about missing documents.
• Call the SSA: If you haven’t received updates, don’t hesitate to contact the SSA to check on the claim’s status.