Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is managed by the Social Security Administration of the federal government. This program assists children with disabilities who have never worked. The disabling condition must last or must be expected to last continuously for at least twelve months.
SSI pays monthly checks to families who have income and personal belongings that fall within certain income guidelines. The amount varies from state to state. Your child may also be eligible to receive a medical card based on family income. The SSI medical card is also issued by the county Department of Jobs and Family Services where a family resides. You must contact the county Department of Jobs and Family Services separately from the SSI office once you are approved for SSI.
To apply for SSI, parents must visit or call their local Social Security office. The toll free number is 800-772-1213. Initial information is taken over the phone, and applications are mailed directly to parents. Questions are asked relating to residence, income, resources, and your child's medical condition. In addition to your rheumatologist, all of your physicians will be required to complete a medical questionnaire. The state in which a family lives reviews an application for eligibility. The approval process may take six months or longer. Potential recipients have the right to appeal any decision made about their eligibility or payment amount. Your rheumatology social worker can help you with completing any of the various applications for medical coverage.
For more information about the William S. Rowe Division of Rheumatology at Cincinnati Children's, please contact 513-636-4676.
