Every Oklahoman parent hopes that their children enter the world without illness or pain, but it is a sad fact that not every new baby is capable of living an independent life. Disabilities can afflict individuals at any age and can develop from innate characteristics or from post-birth injuries or illnesses. A child who suffers from a disabling condition may require long-term support and care if they are not able to sustain self-sufficiency and care.
Because this is a sad truth the Social Security Administration offers some disabled children the opportunity to seek Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These benefits are only for children who have little to no financial means of support and who are seriously limited by physical or mental conditions. Like the general definition of disability recognized by the Social Security Administration, “disabled” for children also includes a provision that their limiting condition must last for at least one year.
The process of seeking SSI benefits for a disabled child requires organization and planning. Various pieces of evidence must be collected to demonstrate the child’s financial need as well as the extent of their disabling condition. Documentation from doctors, schools and other entities may need to be located and pulled together to build a strong case for a child’s application for SSI support.
No child should be left with nothing, but disabled children can find themselves marginalized and struggling if they do not have the financial support they require. It is important that their families take active steps to get them the help they need and attorneys who support disability benefits’ clients can be excellent resources for them.