As a parent of a JM child, you may be entitled to assistance to help cover your child’s medical bills.The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the two largest Federal programs assisting people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) benefits you and certain family members provided you are “insured.” In this case, being “insured” means that you have worked long enough and in occupations where you paid Social Security taxes.
Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pays benefits based on financial need. The Social Security website has a wealth of information regarding these programs.
When you apply for either program, medical and other information from you is collected and a decision is made about whether or not you or your family member meet Social Security’s definition of disability.
The Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool can be used to help determine which programs may be able to pay you or your family member benefits.
For more information, please visit www.ssa.gov/disability/.
