How do I know if my child qualifies for Social Security disability?

To qualify for Social Security disability, a child must be under the age of 18, meet the SSA's definition of a disabled child, as well as meet specific household income and resource eligibility requirements. A child is considered disabled under the SSA definition if his or her physical and/or mental condition causes "marked and severe functional limitations" that are expected to last at least 12 months and/or will result in death.

When you file the requisite application for disability benefits for your child, you will need to provide SSA with detailed information about your child’s medical condition(s). Once SSA has received all of the relevant information about your child’s medical condition(s), its determination services will then make a decision about your child’s eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. If SSA needs additional information to make a full determination, it may pay for your child to have certain tests or see certain medical providers. It may take anywhere from three to five months for SSA to make a determination on your child's benefits claim. However, certain medical conditions such as HIV infection, Down's Syndrome, and cerebral palsy, will immediately entitle your child to SSI payments.

Other conditions that may qualify your child for disability benefits include:

• Growth Impairments
• Musculoskeletal System Disorders
• Special Senses, Speech Disorders, Learning Impairments
• Respiratory Disorders
• Cardiovascular Disorders
• Digestive System Disorders
• Genitourinary Impairments (such as impairment in renal function)
• Hematological Disorders (such as sickle cell disease)
• Certain Chronic Skin Disorders
• Endocrine System Disorders (such as Diabetes or Thyroid Disorder)
• Neurological Problems such as Cerebral Palsy
• Mental and Learning Disorders
• Malignant Neoplastic Diseases
• Immune System Disorders such as Systemic Lupus

Talk with an experienced SSA attorney to further discuss Social Security disability benefits for your child.