When a child is born with a condition that means he or she will need special care, many parents can feel overwhelmed. The diagnosis may come as a shock, no matter how early it is detected, and they may worry about whether they will be able to provide the specialized care their child will need. Unfortunately, many parents find themselves struggling financially as they try to ensure that their child’s needs are met.
Struggles can begin early as parents may have to take time off of work or leave work completely in order to provide care for the child. It is not unusual for parents to be unable to afford professional child care even with both parents working, and when one parent has to leave work, their limited income becomes even more restricted. As a result, many parents wonder whether they and their child could receive benefits to help meet financial obligations.
Fortunately, Supplemental Security Income could help qualifying families meet the needs of their child more easily by providing financial assistance that could pay for:
- Trained caregivers for the child
- Adaptive essentials, such as clothes, eating utensils or other items
- Home modifications to meet mobility and accessibility needs
- Food for the child’s specific diet requirements
- Rent or mortgage
- Utilities
- School supplies
- Much more
Even if a child has a known disability, he or she may not automatically qualify for benefits. Parents will need to apply for SSI in hopes of receiving financial assistance to help meet their child’s needs. Fortunately, they do not have to try to navigate this process alone, and many may find it helpful to contact legal professionals experienced in the SSI process for assistance.
