How to apply for SSI for a child

You apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a child through the Social Security Administration (SSA), not through a state or local office. The process starts with either an online application at ssa.gov, a phone call to 1-800-772-1213, or an in-person visit to your local Social Security office. You will need to provide proof of the child's disability or medical condition, proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of income and resources for the entire household, and the child's Social Security number.

The SSA does not make a decision based on your application alone. After you submit, the SSA sends your case to your state's Disability information Services (DDS) office, which reviews medical records and may order additional tests. This review typically takes three to five months, though it can take longer if the DDS needs more information from doctors or hospitals. You will receive a written decision in the mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start an SSI application online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.
  • You must provide medical records showing the child's condition, proof the child is a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and documentation of household income and resources.
  • The SSA sends your application to your state's Disability information Services office, which makes the actual decision and typically takes three to five months.
  • If denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter, and later request a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Documents you need before you start

Gather these documents before you begin the application, whether online or by phone. You will need the child's birth certificate or passport, Social Security number, and proof of citizenship (U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). If the child is not a U.S. citizen, you will need proof of legal residency status, such as a green card or visa.

You also need proof of household income for the past two months: pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, or a letter from an employer. If anyone in the household receives benefits (unemployment, TANF, food stamps, housing assistance), bring documentation of those as well. Bring proof of all household resources: bank account statements, property deeds, vehicle titles, and life insurance policies. The SSA counts these toward the resource limit, which is $2,000 for the child and $3,000 for a household of two or more.

Finally, bring medical records related to the child's condition. This can be records from doctors, hospitals, therapists, schools, or clinics. If records are recent and detailed, they may be enough; if they are old or incomplete, the DDS will order new evaluations at no cost to you.

Starting the application online or by phone

The fastest way to start is online at ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/. Click "Apply for SSI" and follow the form. You can save your progress and return later. The online form asks for the child's personal information, your household's income and resources, and medical history. You do not upload documents during the online application; the SSA will ask for them later.

If you prefer to apply by phone, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your time zone. A representative will ask the same questions as the online form and schedule an appointment for you to submit documents. If you apply in person, visit your local Social Security office (find the address at ssa.gov/locator). Bring the documents listed above with you.

After you submit your application, the SSA will send you a receipt notice by mail within two weeks. Keep this notice; it has a case number you will use to check the status of your application.

What happens after you submit

The SSA forwards your application to your state's Disability information Services office within one to two weeks. The DDS reviews your medical records and decides whether the child's condition meets SSA's definition of disability. For children, disability means a physical or mental condition that causes marked and severe functional limitations and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

The DDS may contact you to ask follow-up questions or request additional medical records from the child's doctors. If records are incomplete, the DDS will order a consultative examination (CE) at no cost to you. This is usually a one-time visit with a doctor or psychologist chosen by the DDS, not your child's regular doctor. The DDS uses this exam to fill gaps in the medical record.

You can check the status of your application online at ssa.gov/myaccount or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The SSA will not give you a status update by email or text.

Timeline and what to expect

Most decisions take three to five months from the date you submit your application. Some cases take longer if the DDS needs additional medical information or if there is a backlog in your state. A few cases are decided faster, within six to eight weeks, if the medical evidence is clear and complete.

You will receive your decision by mail. If approved, the letter will state the monthly payment amount and the date payments begin. SSI payments are usually deposited into a bank account or sent to a debit card. If denied, the letter will explain the reason and tell you how to request reconsideration.

If you are approved, the child's SSI payments may affect other benefits. For example, SSI counts as income for food stamps and housing assistance in some states. Contact your local food stamp or housing office to report the SSI income.

What to do if your application is denied

If the SSA denies your application, you have the right to challenge the decision. You must request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter. The 60-day deadline is strict; if you miss it, you must start a new application.

To request reconsideration, fill out Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) and mail it to the address on your denial letter, or submit it in person at your local Social Security office. You can also request reconsideration by phone at 1-800-772-1213. During reconsideration, a different DDS examiner reviews your case and may request new medical evidence.

If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). This is a formal process where you can present evidence and testify. Many people hire a lawyer or representative for a hearing; the representative is paid only if you win, and the fee is capped at 25 percent of your back pay. You must request a hearing within 60 days of the reconsideration denial.

Income and resource limits

SSI has strict income and resource limits. For 2024, the resource limit is $2,000 for the child alone. If the child lives with a parent or parents, the household resource limit is $3,000. Resources include bank accounts, stocks, property (other than the home you live in), vehicles, and life insurance with a cash value. The SSA does not count the home you live in or one vehicle.

Unearned income (such as child support, gifts, or other benefits) reduces the SSI payment dollar-for-dollar after a $65 monthly exclusion. Earned income (from a job) is treated differently and has a larger exclusion. If the child's income exceeds the limit, the child is not found to be in financial need and will not receive SSI, even if disabled.

Income and resource limits change each year. Check ssa.gov/ssi for the current year's limits before you apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for SSI if my child is not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, but only if your child is a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee, an asylee, or in certain other legal statuses. Undocumented children cannot receive SSI. You will need to provide proof of your child's immigration status, such as a green card, I-94, or asylum approval letter.

What if my child already receives disability benefits from another program?

You can apply for SSI even if your child receives Supplemental Security Income from another source or benefits through a parent's Social Security record. However, SSI counts other income toward the limit. Tell the SSA about all income your child receives when you apply.

How long does it take to get the first payment after approval?

Payments usually begin the month after you are approved, though the exact timing depends on when in the month the SSA processes your case. The first payment is deposited into your bank account or sent to a debit card within one to two weeks of approval.

What if I disagree with the medical decision?

You can submit new or updated medical records during reconsideration or at a hearing. If your child's condition has worsened or new medical evidence exists, include it with your reconsideration request. At a hearing, you can present medical records and have your child's doctor testify if needed.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for SSI?

No, you can apply without a lawyer. However, many people hire a representative for reconsideration or a hearing, especially if the first decision was denied. Representatives are paid only if you win, and their fee is limited to 25 percent of back pay owed to you.