Children Under Age 18 Applying for SSI

Vance Jennings

Attorney

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Q: Is the claims process different for a child under 18 applying for SSI?

A: Yes. First, a child must have an impairment or combination of impairments resulting in severe functional limitations. Generally, there are three steps: (1) Is there substantial gainful activity? If the answer is yes, the claim is denied. (2) Does the claimant have severe impairment(s) that cause more than a minimal effect on his/her functioning. If yes, move on to step three. (3) Does the claimant's impairment meet, or functionally equal a listing to establish total disability? In order to functionally equal a listing, the claimant must have a marked limitation in two areas or an extreme limitation in one area. The areas considered are as follows: (a) ability to acquire and use information (b) ability to attend and complete tasks (c) ability to interact and relate with others (d) the ability to move and manipulate objects (e) the ability to care for self (f) and the general health and physical well-being.