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While the process of applying for Disability Benefits for child has not changed at this time, the process can be slower due to the current cuts to the Social Security Administration (SSA). We also understand that applying for Disability Benefits can feel overwhelming for a parent of a child with disabilities. So this month we asked Tanusha Thuraisingam, Esq.* to share her insights on the process with us:
Caring for a disabled child is challenging in every way. Worrying about how you will financially support your child — not to mention how they will be taken care of when you’re gone — may leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and alone.
On top of everything else, understanding and applying for disability benefits is daunting. It can be hard to know where to begin. To get you started on the right path, I am sharing the questions I am most often asked by my clients — and their answers.
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
To be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, you must have at least 10 consecutive years of work history and be unable to work in any capacity. Pay levels are determined by averaging how much money you have earned for the past 5 years. You may qualify for benefits if you expect to be out of work for 12 months and are receiving treatment from a physician.
To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, you must be either a U.S. citizen OR a permanent resident with 10 consecutive years of work history. No work history is necessary for U.S. citizens. The medical requirements for SSI benefits are the same as those for SSDI; however, non-medical eligibility is based on financial assets and countable income. SSI is available to both adults and children.
If your disabled adult child is a US citizen, they may be eligible for SSI and/or the Disabled Adult Child (DAC) program.
To determine if you or your child is eligible for SSDI, create an account at ssa.gov.
When do I apply for DAC or SSI for my adult disabled child?
To apply for DAC benefits under a parent’s social security number, an adult child must be unable to work and the parent must be receiving retirement or disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. To qualify for DAC benefits, the person must have been disabled or impaired and unable to work when they were 18–22 years old. They cannot be earning any wages above substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is $1,620 per month for 2025.
How much money will my child be entitled to?
Through SSI, an individual may be entitled to up to $967 per month. However, if the child lives with their parent and does not pay rent, a “fair” amount for room and board will be deducted from their monthly payment. Having a rental agreement with your child may be beneficial.
DAC payments vary based on parents’ earning history.
How long does the process take?
Applying for either SSI or SSDI can take anywhere from 6 months to more than 2 years. While a request can be made to expedite the process due to “dire need” — notice of eviction or utilities turnoff — there is no guarantee the request will be granted. Southern states and California often have a one-year wait at each of three potential levels: initial application, reconsideration and hearing request.
Can my child work and receive disability benefits?
Yes. An SSDI recipient may earn up to $1,620 per month in 2025; this amount increases each year based on cost of living.
SSI recipients’ earnings will be deducted from their disability payment each month. For example, if a recipient makes $1,000 per month, they will not be eligible for SSI, because it is more than the payable amount.
How long will my child receive benefits for?
Social Security conducts a continuing disability review (CDR) every 2–3 years to confirm eligibility for those under 60. Those in the DAC program may receive benefits for the duration of their life with CDR approval.
SSI and SSDI are complicated. If you need assistance in applying for either, please reach out to me for guidance, from initial application through hearings and entitlement.
*Tanusha Thuraisingam began her career with a large national firm and founded her own practice, The Law Offices of Tanusha Thuraisingam, to provide her clients with a deeper level of service. For nearly two decades, she has helped thousands of clients claim their SSDI and SSI benefits. Based in New York City, Tanusha works with clients nationwide. www.disabilitylawoffice.com
**The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
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