Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a lifeline for many Americans with disabilities. While typically associated with individuals who have worked and paid into the system, there’s a lesser-known avenue for adults who became disabled before age 22. These individuals may be eligible for SSDI benefits based on their parent’s work record. Here’s how this program works and how to apply with the help of a Social Security disability attorney.
What is SSDI?
SSDI is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who have become disabled and are unable to work. Generally, to qualify for SSDI, a person must have worked for a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that some individuals become disabled before they have the opportunity to build up their own work history.
Disabled Adult Child Program
The Disabled Adult Child (DAC) program allows adults who became disabled before age 22 to receive SSDI benefits based on their parent’s work record. To be eligible, several criteria must be met:
- The adult child must be 18 or older and have a disability that meets the SSA’s strict adult disability standards.
- The disability must have started before the individual turned 22. They can be older when they apply, but need to have proper documentation to support disability started prior to age 22.
- The adult child must be unmarried.
- The parent must have paid enough into Social Security to be fully insured for retirement benefits.
- The parent must be deceased, permanently disabled, or currently receiving Social Security retirement benefits.
If these conditions are satisfied, the disabled adult child may receive a substantial benefit, often higher than what they might receive through Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Importantly, the adult child’s unearned income and assets are not considered for SSDI eligibility, unlike SSI.
Plan Ahead for Your Child
If you’re a parent of a child with disabilities who may qualify for SSDI in the future, it’s essential to plan ahead. Consider these steps:
- Have your child screened by the Social Security system for their disability before they turn 22.
- Ensure that your child’s physician maintains detailed records of their disability from an early age.
- Keep thorough documentation of your child’s disabling condition up to age 22 to facilitate the SSDI application process when the time comes.
By taking these proactive measures, you can help ensure a smoother application process for your child when they become eligible for SSDI benefits.
How can Merryl Jones, Second Chance Lawyer Help You?
The complexities of SSDI applications, especially for disabled adult children, can be challenging. This is where Merryl Jones – Second Chance Lawyer, can provide invaluable assistance.
We can help you:
- Determine if your child qualifies for the DAC program
- Gather and organize the necessary medical documentation
- Complete and submit the SSDI application
- Appeal a denied claim if necessary
Contact Merryl Jones – Second Chance Lawyer, Your Social Security Disability Attorney
Don’t let the complexities of the SSDI system prevent your disabled adult child from receiving the benefits they deserve. Contact Merryl Jones – Second Chance Lawyer today to schedule a free case review with a knowledgeable Social Security disability attorney.
