When a child receiving SSI benefits becomes an adult, they have to be reevaluated by the SSA, in a process known as redetermination. This is done because the SSA evaluates adult recipients differently than they do child recipients. While this does sometimes end in the child losing benefits as they enter adulthood, the SSA is particularly sensitive to the needs of these recipients, and takes extra measures to ensure fairness during the redetermination process.
If a child met the required listings for a disability as a child, they are highly likely to remain eligible for SSI as an adult. In most cases, these listings are the exact same for both child and adult recipients. However, when they do differ, the SSA keeps the process fair by keeping the listings in the “Childhood Blue Book,” and “Adult Blue Book” as equally severe. Eating disorders, and a few other specific disabilities, only exist within the “Childhood Blue Book.” If a new adult wants to continue receiving SSI benefits for one of these disorders, they will need to be granted a medical-vocational allowance for their eating disorder, if they want to continue to receive disability benefits from the SSA.
Many children ending up receiving SSI benefits not because they meet listings, but because they have a condition that either met or equaled the conditions of a listing. If these recipients want to continue receiving benefits as an adult, they must show that they are unable to work due to their afflictions, if they wish to gain a medical-vocational allowance. To determine their ability to work, the SSA will find out their Residual Functional Capacity, or simply RFC. This test determines both the applicant’s non-exertional and exertional limitations.
When determining a child turning 18’s RFC, the SSA will look at the following three areas:
* Their ability to function in educational programs.
* Their past experience participating in jobs, community experiences, and job training.
* Their experience with work-induced stress.
When gathering evidence to demonstrate the state of these three areas to the SSA, you will need to gather the following types of evidence:
* Doctor’s Statements
* Statements from Psychologists, School Officials, and Past Bosses
* Statements from Community Members
* Statements from School Officials
Do you need assistance ensuring your child will continue to receive SSI benefits after turning 18? At Liner Legal, we are dedicated to helping families navigate the often difficult redetermination process. If you are ready to start the path toward a secure life for your new adult, contact our friendly staff today to set up a free consultation. More than any other firm, we are equipped to deal effectively with the many Social Security offices in Cleveland.
