Dear Editor:
A married couple recently came into my office and was surprised when I said their son might qualify for Supplement Security Income (SSI) payments. He is mentally retarded and attends classes as a special education school. Because he’s now 18, he’s eligible for SSI benefits on his own.
Several years ago, the couple applied for SSI for their son. The claim was denied because their total family income was too high. It never occurred to them to reapply at a later date when their son was older.
Social Security doesn’t consider the parents’ income and assets when determining if a person age 18 or older is eligible for SSI. We look only at the person’s income and assets. This means that a person who couldn’t qualify for SSI before his or her 18th birthday, because the parents’ income or assets were too high, may become eligible at age 18.
The couple’s child is now self-sufficient because he earns wages from his job at a sheltered workshop and also receives SSI payments. He is living in a group home. This gives him an added measure of independence and protects him in case something happens to his parents.
If you have a disabled child turning age 18 who has not applied for SSI because your income was too high, you should consider contacting us now. Call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment with your nearest Social Security office.
Yvonne Bryant
Social Security Manager
Jersey City