DOWNS SYNDROME AND DISABILITY BENEFITS

Downs Syndrome often qualifies for automatic SSI disability award in children. A child with Translocation Syndrome or Trisomy 21 will usually be classified as disabled from birth. This type of syndrome affects about 98 percent of the Downs Syndrome population. Social Security will want a diagnosis from a medically acceptable source and they will want certain test results. Once the documentation is presented, an SSI award may be automatic. Keep in mind that SSI is a needs -based program for families with very limited resources and income.

SSI counts the parents' income and resources when the claimant is under age 18. With adult claimants (age 18 or over), the parents' income/resources no longer count in children's cases, so it may be much easier to meet the non-medical requirements for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for a claimant age 18 or over.

Children with the other type of Downs Syndrome --called Mosaic Down syndrome --may qualify, but your child would need more than a diagnosis to be approved. Because [according to SSA] people with Mosaic Down syndrome may not have as many intellectual or physical disabilities as those with other forms of Down Syndrome, you’ll need to meet another listing in the Blue Book to qualify. Social Security will also consider the complications of Downs Syndrome in making a decision.

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The Forsythe Firm, Social Security Disability Representation, Huntsville, AL (256) 799-0297.