What is involved in applying for SSI for the child?
To qualify for SSI the child must meet the disability and income requirements established by the SSA. The child must have a disability that has lasted, or is expected to last, for a year. Additionally, the disability must result in an impairment that interferes with daily living, e.g. inability to function in a regular classroom at school. The parent/guardian income is not counted in determining financial eligibility if admission to a residential facility will occur within 30 days and will last longer than one month. It is essential to provide the SSA office with all relevant reports, assessments, evaluations, and other documentation concerning the child’s mental health needs. An SSI checklist developed by the SSA can help in the application process. Additional information about SSI can be found on the Social Security Administration’s website.
