Cerebral palsy is one of the most common developmental disabilities among children. It is often characterized by limitations in their mobility and speech. Since the condition limits the ability of children to perform daily tasks, they are dependent on their caregivers. Parents of children with cerebral palsy usually come at a crossroads—deciding whether to work for extra hours or skip workdays to take care of their child.
Fortunately, federal programs could help you in these challenging times. Understanding your options would help you get the necessary assistance to care for your family. Being familiar with the requirements and procedures could also prevent chances of being denied these benefits.
You can apply for SSI benefits for your child
The Supplementary Security Income, or SSI, is a government program that provides monthly financial support to people with limited income and disabilities. You can apply for SSI benefits for your child by meeting the following conditions:
- The child must be below 18 years old.
- The child must have a physical or mental condition that limits their activities. The condition must have lasted, or expected to last, at least for a year.
- The household income and resources are within Social Security’s eligibility standard.
The Social Security Administration will review and evaluate your submitted medical and personal documents according to their standards. The process could take 3 to 5 months before you receive the decision regarding your child’s SSI claim.
You can also get benefits from other programs
You might also be eligible for other government programs when you qualify for SSI. You can get benefits from Medicaid that can help you pay medical bills. The government could also refer your child to state agencies for other social, educational, developmental and medical services.
While cerebral palsy limits some of the abilities of a child, it should not hinder them from thriving in life. Federal programs are available to help families in unique situations receive necessary care and support. If you encounter issues applying for these programs, there are Social Security Disability lawyers who could help you get the benefits you deserve.
