Do you know what ADHD is? It stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Millions of kids have it, in fact.. It’s when a child has a hard time paying attention, acts without thinking, or is super active more than other kids their age. The good news is, if your child has severe ADHD, they might get some money to help from a program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program is run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s important to know how to apply for this help, how much money you might get, and what to do if they say no.
More than 5 Million Kids Have ADHD
ADHD may qualify your child for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI benefits are available thanks to the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s a program that gives money to those who have low income and meet criteria such as having a disability.
How to Qualify for SSA Benefits with ADHD
Navigating the process of applying for SSA programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be challenging when your child has been diagnosed with ADHD. The SSA’s rules are very clear and strict. However, understanding these requirements is the first step towards getting benefits that you may qualify for!
A diagnosis of severe ADHD symptoms by a mental health professional or medical doctor is crucial to qualify for SSI disability benefits. It isn’t enough just to have an attention deficit disorder. The condition must significantly impair your child’s ability to function in at least two key areas such as:
- Cognitive functioning
- Social interactions
- Self-management
This means your child needs a doctor or expert to say they have ADHD. Plus, you have to show how ADHD makes their everyday life harder compared to others that are in the same age group without such conditions. Besides how severe someone’s ADHD symptoms are, their family’s income also matters a lot in deciding if they qualify. According to SSA guidelines, families earning beyond certain limits set annually might find themselves ineligible regardless of how severely impacted their kid may be.
How Much Can You Get?
The amount of your monthly SSI benefit depends on a variety of factors. That means the benefit amount is given on a case-by-case basis. However, there are limits that people face regardless of their situation. The SSI can only provide up to $943 at most for an individual. To put this into perspective, if you were eligible for the maximum monthly amount, you would get over $10,000 for 12 months of support.
There are two ways that people can receive their SSI payment. These ways include:
- Directly into a bank account, or
- On a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®.
Some people like direct deposit because it’s fast and convenient. If you’re getting Social Security benefits or applying for them, you must choose an electronic way to get paid.
How to Apply to Get Monthly Support
With a proper understanding of the application process, you can secure financial assistance for your child with ADHD who struggles to function normally through SSI benefits. The process might look hard, but if you know each step and get ready for it, you can get through it just fine.
You’ll want to complete an online disability application detailing how your child’s severe ADHD symptoms affect their daily life and ability to perform tasks. This involves documenting instances where attention deficit disorder has caused significant disruptions at school or home.
You’ll also be asked about any mental health professionals who have been involved in diagnosing or treating your child’s condition, along with details around psychological test results. All of these help the SSA evaluate whether your child qualifies for SSI benefits based on the severity of their neurodevelopmental disorders.
What if Your Application is Denied?
In case the initial application gets denied, don’t lose hope just yet. Many families first get a “no” from the SSA because they don’t have enough proof. But, you can ask them to check again. If you get a “no”, you have 60 days to ask them to look at it again. So, always check your mail after sending in the form.
Overall
ADHD is a condition where kids might act more active, find it hard to pay attention, or do things without thinking compared to other kids. It’s more common than you might think, with over 5 million kids having it. If your child has severe ADHD, your household might be able to get some financial help from a program called SSI. To get this help, you need to apply and show how ADHD affects your child’s daily life. There’s a certain amount of money you can get, and there are rules on how it’s paid to you. If your application is turned down the first time, don’t worry. You can ask them to look at it again. Remember, the support is there; you just need to take the steps to get it if you qualify!
