SSI for Children — childhood SSI
A federal SSI cash benefit for children under 18 with a qualifying disability and limited household income. SSA decides using six functional domains.
Official source: ssa.gov
## How children qualify medically
A child must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that causes **marked and severe functional limitations** and is expected to last (or has lasted) at least 12 months or to result in death.
## The six functional domains
SSA evaluates childhood disability across six domains:
1. **Acquiring and using information** 2. **Attending and completing tasks** 3. **Interacting and relating with others** 4. **Moving about and manipulating objects** 5. **Caring for yourself** 6. **Health and physical well-being**
A child must have a **marked** limitation in two domains, or an **extreme** limitation in one domain, to be found disabled.
## Income and resource rules (deeming)
Because children cannot earn meaningful income, SSA looks at the parents' income and resources and "deems" a portion to the child. The household must meet SSI's income and resource limits ($2,000 for the child after deeming).
## 2026 federal maximum
The 2026 federal SSI maximum for an eligible child is **$994 per month** (the same as the adult individual rate). Some states add a state supplement.
## Medicaid eligibility
Children approved for SSI are typically automatically eligible for Medicaid in their state, which usually covers therapy, medical equipment, and specialty care.
## Age 18 redetermination
When a child on SSI turns 18, SSA must re-evaluate the case under **adult disability standards**. This is called an Age 18 Redetermination. Parental income is no longer deemed at 18, so household income stops counting, but the medical standard becomes the stricter adult test.
## What documentation helps
- All medical and therapy records. - IEPs and school evaluations. - Statements from teachers and treating providers. - Function reports describing how the child handles daily activities compared to typical peers.
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Frequently asked questions about SSI for Children
What is the income limit for a child to get SSI?+
There is no single number — SSA uses deeming to count parents' income and resources, with multiple allowances. Two-parent households with multiple children can sometimes qualify even at moderate incomes.
Does my child get Medicaid with SSI?+
In most states, yes — children approved for SSI are typically automatically eligible for Medicaid.
What is an Age 18 Redetermination?+
When a child on SSI turns 18, SSA re-evaluates the case using adult disability standards. Parental income stops being deemed, but the medical test becomes the adult test.
What if my child is denied at the initial application?+
Appeal. The reconsideration and ALJ hearing levels are available, just like for adults. Many initial childhood denials are reversed on appeal with stronger evidence.
Are special education records useful evidence?+
Yes. IEPs, 504 plans, teacher statements, and school therapy evaluations are highly relevant to the six functional domains SSA evaluates.
Source: ssa.gov