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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial assistance to children who are unable to work due to disability and have limited financial resources. In Ohio, SSI eligibility is primarily based on your child’s ability to gain employment and the number of years they’ve contributed to the Social Security system. 

Keep reading to learn how children with disabilities can start receiving SSI benefits in Ohio.

Medical Eligibility for Children

To qualify for SSI benefits, children in Ohio must meet specific criteria:

  • Limited Earnings: Your child must not be working or earning more than $1,470 a month in 2023. A child who is blind must not be working or earning more than $2,460. 
  • Functional Limitations: Your child must have severe functional limitations that interfere with their ability to function at the same level as their peers.
  • Duration of Disability: Your child must have been disabled for at least one full year or have a life-threatening disability.

 

It’s worth noting that Ohio’s state agency usually needs 3 to 6 months to determine if your child meets their disability criteria. However, they provide immediate SSI payments for certain medical conditions. These payments can extend for up to 6 months while the state agency assesses your child’s eligibility for a qualifying disability. The following are some of the conditions that may make your child eligible:

  • Complete blindness
  • Profound deafness
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Down syndrome
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Severe intellectual disability (for children aged 4 or older)
  • Symptomatic HIV infection
  • Birth weight below 2 pounds, 10 ounces

Determining Child Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses two methods to determine if your child is disabled:

  • Listing Comparison: A representative will compare the child’s condition to the criteria outlined in Part B of the disability listing.
  • Functional Limitations Assessment: The representative will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the child’s limitations, assessing their abilities and restrictions.

Medical Evidence Requirements for Children

As a parent of a child with a disability, you are responsible for providing substantial evidence to prove the disability. This evidence can include:

  • Medical Records: Detailed medical records outlining your child’s condition, treatment history, and prognosis.
  • Lab Tests: Any diagnostic tests that confirm your child’s medical condition.
  • Doctor’s Observations: Observations and opinions from medical professionals who have examined your child.
  • Other Relevant Information: Any additional information that supports the case.

 

We understand that collecting all the necessary information and evidence might be overwhelming. Our dedicated attorneys are ready to walk with you every step of the way to make sure your case is successful. 

Continuing Disability Reviews

Once the SSA determines that your child is disabled and eligible for SSI benefits, periodic reviews may be necessary to ensure that their condition still warrants these benefits. These continuing disability reviews help maintain the integrity of the SSI program and ensure that assistance is directed to those who truly need it.

With the help of Regas & Haag, LTD, your application for SSI benefits in Ohio will be a breeze. Contact us today to get started!

Disability insurance is a critical safety net, offering financial stability to individuals hindered by medical conditions. While this safety net is invaluable, the road to obtaining disability benefits can be arduous, with claims occasionally denied for various reasons. 

Recognizing and comprehending these factors behind claim rejections is instrumental. With this knowledge, individuals can more easily maneuver the complex claims process, significantly enhancing their prospects of successful claim approval. Navigating the intricate web of disability claims becomes more manageable when equipped with insights into these common hurdles.

1. Age-Related Considerations

The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets a minimum age of 18 for disability benefits. However, the SSA evaluates disability claims for children and young people differently. When applying for disability payments, it is important to understand these age-related differences.

2. Educational Background Assessment

The SSA considers education level part of its disability evaluation process. However, it’s essential to note that education alone does not determine disability. Disabilities can affect individuals regardless of their educational background. By understanding how education is factored into disability determinations, applicants can better prepare their claims.

3. Severity Criteria

The SSA defines disability as a medical condition that prevents an individual from engaging in substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. While this criterion may seem strict, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the SSA aims to support those with severe impairments. Learning more about the criteria for disability severity can assist applicants in making compelling claims.

4. Occupation-Based Assessments

The SSA evaluates disability claims based on whether applicants can perform their current job. However, it’s important to understand that having the ability to fulfill current job responsibilities doesn’t necessarily equate to overall work capability. Many individuals can manage their current roles but face significant limitations due to disabilities. Recognizing how occupation factors into disability determinations can be crucial when applying for benefits.

5. Job-Seeking Efforts

To qualify for disability benefits, the SSA requires applicants to demonstrate an effort to find suitable work. While this requirement exists, it’s essential to recognize that many disabled individuals encounter significant barriers in their job search due to discrimination and workplace challenges. Understanding the SSA’s expectations regarding job-seeking efforts can help applicants present a stronger case.

How to Be Prepared

Gaining insights into the prevalent factors contributing to disability claim denials and thorough preparation when pursuing benefits can greatly enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Disability insurance is a vital lifeline during challenging times, offering crucial financial support when needed.

At Regas & Haag, Ltd., we are dedicated to assisting individuals throughout this journey. Our experienced disability lawyers have a proven track record of advocating for clients, providing expert analysis, and representing them diligently in the complex world of disability claims. Your financial well-being and peace of mind matter to us. If you’ve faced a denial, take action today. Contact Regas & Haag, Ltd. for the support and guidance you deserve in securing the benefits you are entitled to. Your future depends on it.