How to Apply for Disability Benefits for Children

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides monthly payments to disabled children if their families meet income limits and other qualifications. Medical conditions accepted by SSA as severe enough to qualify as disabilities include autoimmune disease, renal failure, hematological disorders, mental retardation, cerebral palsy and seizure and muscular disorders. You may apply for benefits at your local SSA office or online at ssa.gov.

Things You'll Need

• Manila folder

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Instructions

• 1

  Fill a manila folder with documentation and other information listed on the childhood disability interview checklist (see Resources). This includes the names, addresses and phone numbers of all medical providers, lists of medications and of schools attended in the past 12 months, a list of employers if the child has been employed, birth certificate, Social Security number and proof of income and resources.

• 2

  Get a medical and school worksheet (see Resources) from a local administration office, by visiting the SSA website or calling 800-772-1213. The worksheet, which allows you to document information including the child's illnesses, injuries, or conditions, medicines and medical testing, isn't required, but it will help you organize the information needed for your SSA application and interview.

• 3

  Fill out and submit the child disability report (see Resources) online, at an SSA office or by calling to have an application mailed to you. You will receive a response to your application within 30 to 90 days. If your application is denied, proceed to Step 4.

• 4

  Obtain a "Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order" form from SSA, complete it and submit the form within 60 days of the date on your denial letter. This form asks for basic identifying information, such as Social Security number, and provides room for you to explain your reason for appealing the decision.

• 5

  Prepare for your appeal hearing by going over and assembling all your supporting evidence, including medical records, statements from school officials and documentation from other sources familiar with the child's disability.

• 6

  Go to the hearing, which typically takes place before an administrative law judge at a regional SSA office. You may submit evidence, give a statement and call witnesses, and you may bring a lawyer. You should receive a response indicating approval or denial within 90 days of the hearing.