FINANCIAL
Check Out The Benefits
Available for Families
With Special Needs Kids
By Bret COLSON
If you are the parent, caregiver, or representative of a child younger than 18 who
has disabilities, there are many possible government benefits that you and the child
could be eligible to receive. In addition, an adult who became disabled in childhood
prior to age 22 might also be eligible for benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
S
SI makes monthly payments to people who have
limited resources and low income and are 65 or
older, blind, or disabled. If your child is under
18, he or she may be able to qualify if they have
a physical or mental condition or a combination of
conditions that meet Social Security’s definitions. In
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addition, his or her income and resources must also
fall within eligibility limits. Payment amounts may
vary from state to state because some state agen-
cies will add to a potential SSI payment.
To qualify as disabled, a child must have a condition
or combination of conditions that result in “marked
and severe functional limitations.” In addition, the