Every parent fears that their child will be a victim of abuse. After being abused children can need years of treatment and medical care to help them heal. During that time parents often struggle to give their kids the emotional support and time they need while also trying to make sure that the bills get paid and the costs of treatment are covered. Children who have been abused can qualify for Supplemental Security Income to help parents cover some of those costs and make it a little easier for them to make sure that their child gets the help that they need.
In order for a child to qualify for Supplemental Security Income they must suffer from a medical condition that is expected to last for at least 12 months. All of the medical conditions that can qualify for SSI are listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. The Blue Book lists specific criteria that must be met for each condition listed. Mood disorders and mental disorders can qualify for SSI. Some of the most common emotional and mood disorders that affect children who have been abused that qualify for Supplemental Security Income are:
In order for your child to qualify for SSI with one or more of these disorders you will need to submit a medical diagnosis from a doctor as well as any psychiatric treatment records like counselor’s notes, caseworker reports, child victim advocate statements, or other documentation. You can also submit statements from family, friends, and teachers who can provide detailed information about the child’s struggles with their disorder and the impact of that disorder on the child’s behavior.
Supplemental Security Income is typically only approved for parents who have a financial need for assistance. In order to qualify for SSI benefits for your child your total household income must fall under a threshold set by the Social Security Administration. The income cap is based on the total number of adults in the household that are working. The current SSI income cap can be found here. When you apply for SSI benefits for your child you will need to submit financial documentation including your latest W-2 or paystubs, tax returns, and other documents that show your income is below the cap.
In order to apply for SSI benefits for your child after abuse you will need to make an appointment at your local SSA office and apply in person. You should bring copies of all your child’s medical documentation and impact statements along with copies of all of your financial information to the appointment because all of that documentation will be submitted with the application. An employee at the SSA office can help you complete and submit the application for Supplemental Security Income benefits so that you can get the money you need to make sure your child gets the treatment they need.
SSI: https://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/supplemental-security-income/how-to-qualify
Blue Book: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/ChildhoodListings.htm
Income Limits: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-income-ussi.htm
SSA Offices: https://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/state-social-security-disability