We recently learned that a segment of our population is currently being under served by the Social Security disability program, and we want to do something about it.
A report written by Doctors James Perrin and Ellen Perrin tells us that children with severe disabilities (physical or mental) are being under served by the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program—a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues, NOT Social Security taxes.
SSI is designed to help aged, blind and disabled persons who have little or no income. It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing and shelter.
According to Dr. Perrin, “National data put the rate of childhood disability at 11 – 12 percent for children in poor households, compared with just eight percent for kids in families with incomes over twice the federal poverty level. Yet fewer than two percent of U.S. children receive SSI benefits because the program limits eligibility to children with very severe disabilities.”*
Heller, Maas, Moro & Magill is taking a serious look at this information and will reach out to healthcare providers in the area to determine ways that we can help these children. We already have a strong program working with local mental health professionals and feel confident that a similar program for children can be developed.
If you have or know of a child who falls within this population segment, we would like to discuss a possible SSI disability claim for that child with you. Please contact our office.
*”A Critical Tool for Families in Poverty: Supplemental Security Income,” James Perrin, Harvard Medical School and Mass General Hospital for Children and Ellen C. Perrin, tufts Medical Center and Center for Children with Special Needs, June 17, 2013.