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Disability Benefits For Minors

How children qualify for disability benefits

When a child is diagnosed with a serious physical or mental health condition, it can have a profound impact on the entire family. These conditions often affect the child's ability to grow, learn, or engage in everyday activities. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits to assist families caring for children with qualifying disabilities, providing much-needed financial support during challenging times.

A Guide for Families Seeking Disability Benefits for Children


When a child has a serious medical condition, it can affect every part of daily life—including their ability to learn, grow, and interact with others. Fortunately, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides financial and medical support for families caring for children with disabilities.


At The Nunley Law Group, we’re here to help you understand the rules, qualifications, and next steps for applying for these important benefits.


Medical Criteria: How a Child Qualifies for SSI


To be eligible for SSI, a child must have a physical or mental condition—or a combination of both—that:


  • Causes “marked and severe functional limitations”

  • Is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death


It’s not just about a diagnosis. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will look at how the condition affects the child’s ability to function in daily life.


SSA Looks at Six Key Areas of Functioning:


  1. Learning and using information

  2. Focusing and completing tasks

  3. Social skills and relationships

  4. Moving around and physical coordination

  5. Self-care and independence

  6. Overall health and physical well-being


To qualify, the child must have:


  • Serious limitations (“marked”) in at least two of these areas, or

  • Very serious limitation (“extreme”) in one area


Physical Conditions That May Qualify


Some of the physical conditions that may make a child eligible for SSI include:


  • Cerebral palsy

  • Muscular dystrophy

  • Spinal cord disorders

  • Severe asthma or cystic fibrosis

  • Congenital heart conditions

  • Blindness or significant vision loss

  • Hearing loss or deafness

  • Cancer or chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease


Medical records should show how these conditions affect the child’s daily life—such as energy level, ability to move, and need for ongoing care.


Mental, Behavioral, and Developmental Conditions


Children with mental health, behavioral, or developmental issues may also qualify if their condition significantly interferes with their ability to function. Examples include:



SSA will consider school records, therapy notes, and psychological evaluations to determine how the condition affects learning, behavior, and social development.


Financial Requirements in 2025


SSI is based on financial need. To qualify, your family must meet income and asset limits.


Income & Asset Limits:


  • Countable resources must be under $2,000 for a single child

  • Under $3,000 for a child living with two parents

  • A portion of the parents' income and assets is considered (this is called “deeming”)


If your family’s income is too high, your child may not qualify—even if their medical condition meets the criteria.


2025 Benefit Amount:


  • Maximum monthly SSI payment for a child: $943

  • Some states offer additional payments


Healthcare Coverage for SSI Recipients


Children who are approved for SSI automatically qualify for Medicaid—a public health insurance program that covers:


  • Doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions

  • Physical, speech, and occupational therapy

  • Mental health services and behavioral therapy

  • Medical equipment and assistive devices


In most states, Medicaid also includes Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) services, which help children get the right care at the right time.


Can a Child Qualify Without a Formal Diagnosis?


Yes. While a diagnosis helps, it’s not required. SSA will accept medical, school, or therapy records that show the child has a serious condition that limits their ability to function. Input from doctors, specialists, therapists, and teachers can all help prove the child’s eligibility.


How The Nunley Law Group Supports Families


We understand how challenging it can be to raise a child with special needs—especially while trying to navigate complicated government programs. That’s why we offer comprehensive legal support to help families:


  • Determine if their child meets SSI medical and financial requirements

  • Collect and organize medical and school documentation

  • Submit a complete and accurate application

  • Handle appeals and represent you at hearings, if necessary


Our goal is to make the process easier for you and to fight for the support your child deserves.


Start with a Free Consultation


If you believe your child may qualify for SSI, don’t delay. The sooner you start, the sooner your family could receive vital financial and medical assistance.


📞 Contact The Nunley Law Group today for a free case evaluation. Let our trusted team guide you every step of the way.

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