Easing the financial burden for families
Children are our most precious resource. A seriously disabled child is both a tremendous gift and a tremendous burden. Parents do not need any help loving their children and giving them the emotional support they need. But in the case of a disabled child, parents sometimes need financial help. Many parents simply cannot afford physical alterations to the house, medical bills, special-care bills and associated expenses.
My name is Melvin A. Cook and I am a Salt Lake City children’s disability attorney. I can help parents through this difficult time. I have a financial background and a legal background, so I understand how important money is for you now and in the future. The welfare of your child should always be a top priority. Not only does your child face tremendous obstacles, parents also face huge financial challenges. I invite you to call me to discuss your case and any Social Security disability (SSD) benefits to which you may be entitled.
When are children eligible for SSD benefits?
There is no manual on how to correctly raise a child. Being a parent is not an easy job. But it is the most rewarding. It can become even more complicated when a child suffers from a disability. Disabilities include both physical and mental handicaps. Unfortunately, just because your child is handicapped does not mean your child is legally disabled. To determine whether your son or daughter is disabled as defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA), hearing officers must ask the following questions:
- Does the child have a physical or mental condition that results in a marked or severe functional limitation?
- Can the child work at a job involving substantial work? (In 2013, the child must be earning less than $1,040 per month.)
- Is the child’s disability terminal or expected to last at least one year?
What is the SSD benefits process regarding children in Utah?
Once you file an application, it can take several months for the SSA doctors to evaluate your child and review appropriate medical and academic records. However, you are entitled to immediate cash benefits if your child has certain qualifying conditions, including low birth weight, Down syndrome, total blindness or total deafness.
After awarding benefits, the SSA generally conducts a review every three years. At the review, you must present evidence that the child is receiving medically necessary treatment. Upon turning 18, your child is no longer eligible for cash benefits, but may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to help cover the costs of continuing care.
Contact a Salt Lake City SSDI attorney advocating for Utah children
For more than 10 years, I have helped ease the financial burden on Utah families so they can concentrate on giving their children all the attention they need. Because the laws regarding disability can get complicated, I can help clients navigate through the legal process. Contact the Law Office of Melvin A. Cook online or at 801-746-5075 to schedule your free consultation. Hablo Español.
801-746-5075