Updated on: 3/25/2019
Many of the federal programs available to people with disabilities are partially or totally based on the assets owned by, or available to, the individual. The majority of programs offered are generated through, or in conjunction with, funding available under the Social Security Act. There are four basic disability-rated benefit programs.
Social Security Retirement Benefits (SSA) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two programs that provide income assistance. SSA provides income to workers who have made the requisite contributions to the system through payment of FICA taxes. SSI may provide a guaranteed minimum income to a disabled person who has not made adequate contributions to a personal Social Security account.
Eligibility for SSI is based on disability requirements and financial need. A child under the age of 18 can qualify for SSI benefits if the child meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if the child’s income of other people in the child’s household are also considered when determining the child’s financial need.
The amount of the SSI payment differs from one state to another because some states supplement of the SSI payment. The eligibility criteria for children may be tough to meet based on Social Security’s stringent financial requirements and its definition of disability.
Medical assistance is available under Medicare, but eligible participants must be eligible for SSA benefits. Medicare provides only listed hospital and doctors’ services. Medicaid is another federally funded program, but is a state-administered program.
Eligibility for Medicaid is based on SSI criteria for both disability and need. The Social Security Act also authorizes the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid may qualify for SCHIP.
For little or no cost, families who earn less than $37,000 per year can purchase insurance so the child will have access to doctor, hospital, immunization, and emergency room services.
Seattle child injury attorney Chris Davis has many resources available for you to access in order to get your legal questions answered.
Resources for Injured Kids: Local and State Assistance Programs
If your questions are not answered, call Mr. Davis at Davis Law Group for a free consultation, (206) 727-4000.