Information on Getting Disability Benefits for a Child With a Speech Problem

Information on Getting Disability Benefits for a Child With a Speech Problem

Normally, receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is dependent on income level, as this specific benefit is granted to those who have a great financial need. However, that situation changes when the person who is disabled is a child. In cases involving children with a speech impediment, the entire household income is taken into consideration. The following information provides valuable tips regarding applying for SSI benefits with a child who has a speech problem.

Financial Qualifications

Families who earn a sizable income are not eligible for SSI if a child has a speech problem, regardless of how severe it is. Families who can prove financial need may be eligible for these benefits.

Medically Qualifying for Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) compares all applications against its listing of impairments, commonly known as the Blue Book. The SSA has a special book for children with disabilities.

How Can a Child Meet Blue Book Qualifications With a Speech Problem?

One of the most common causes of a speech problem in children is hearing loss. Children with a loss of hearing can qualify for benefits if one of these qualifications is met with medical evidence to support it:

• The child is less than five years old and has an average air conduction hearing threshold of no more than 50 decibels
• The child is between 5-18 with an average air conduction hearing threshold of no more than 70 decibels plus a bone conduction hearing threshold of 40 decibels or more
• Has word recognition of less than 41%
• The child has an average air conduction hearing threshold of 50 decibels or greater plus marked limitations in language or speech
• The child has had a cochlear implant procedure.

Medically Qualifying Without Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is not the only reason for a child to have speech problems. Children whose speech impediment is caused by Down syndrome or autism must meet these qualifications to be eligible for SSI benefits:

Children with Down syndrome qualify almost 100% of the time.
Children with a diagnosis of autism with a speech disorder must meet the following qualifications:

• Difficulty with social interactions
• Difficulty with both nonverbal and verbal communication
• Restricted interests and activities
• Difficulty communicating with others
• Difficulty playing with other children
• Difficulty going to school.

If you have questions regarding applying for SSI benefits for a child with a speech problem, contact London Disability today.