Science has yet to explain what causes the extra chromosome in babies with Down Syndrome, but the related health issues are well documented. While the syndrome affects children in different ways, it is often marked by cognitive impairment, unique physical malformations, and growth abnormalities.
Children on the lower end of the spectrum can sometimes manage symptoms through therapy and lifestyle adjustments, but for those more strongly affected, Down Syndrome can impair the ability to learn and process information and place limitations on everyday tasks. As a parent, you worry about your child and how these limitations influence their interaction with the world around them. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers Disability Benefits for Down Syndrome to qualified individuals that can help provide for your child and make sure they can afford the care they need.
What Are Disability Benefits for Down Syndrome?
There are two Disability benefits programs available from the SSA. One is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which provides payments to disabled individuals who meet work history requirements without considering their financial status. The other is Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a means-based program that provides monthly payments to disabled people without requiring a prior work history.
Depending on their income, parents can sometimes apply for SSI benefits when their child with Down Syndrome is young. If you exceed the income limits for the program, you can apply when your child turns 18 instead. Speaking to one of our Social Security attorneys may help give you a better understanding of Disability benefits programs for individuals with Down Syndrome.
Does My Child Qualify For Down Syndrome Disability Benefits?
The SSA requires Disability applicants to meet the government’s definition of “disabled.” In general terms, a person must suffer from a physical or mental impairment that prevents gainful employment for at least a year or results in death. Down Syndrome cases are tricky because mental impairment symptoms vary greatly between patients. On average, the SSA only approves 30 percent of the applications they receive. Sometimes application approval is easier for common accompanying conditions such as vision or hearing loss, communication issues, and cardiac problems, or even Alzheimer’s disease later in life.
It’s hard to judge for yourself whether your child’s disability meets the government standards for SSI or SSDI. A Disability lawyer with Down Syndrome experience is often invaluable in this situation. Having a legal representative with expert knowledge of Social Security Disability procedures to organize the process and guide you through each step can put your application in a better position for approval.
Where Can I Get Help Applying for Down Syndrome Disability Benefits?
At the Disability Help Group in Arizona, we’ve helped clients just like you get approved for Social Security Disability benefits. Our dedicated Disability attorneys in Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson resolve pressing issues and relieve some of the stress involved in the application process by finding the necessary medical evidence and making sure you meet every deadline. Reach out for assistance by calling (888) 939-4692 or submitting our online form today.