When you’re trying to determine whether your child is entitled to disability benefits, the first thing you should do is check the Childhood Listing of Impairments in what is known as the Social Security Administration’s blue book.
The blue book is basically a list of impairments that the SSA has accepted in the past to receive benefits. It provides a baseline for both physical and mental disorders that have been proven to inhibit a person’s ability to properly function or work, as well as diminish a person’s quality of life, requiring financial support to live.
Childhood Disabilities Listed for Social Security Disability Benefits
In order to successfully pursue a disability claim on behalf of your child, it is important for you to know whether his condition can even qualify for benefits. The blue book can help you establish this fact, as well as what you need to be able to prove your child’s condition. Although not all ailments that can qualify are listed, the guidelines are sufficient enough to help you determine whether his condition is similar and severe enough to attempt a claim. The general categories of childhood conditions included in the blue book are:
- Growth impairments
- Musculoskeletal (joint, muscle and bone) disorders
- Special senses and speech impairments
- Respiratory ailments
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Digestive disorders
- Genitourinary (reproductive and urinary system) impairments
- Hematological (blood) disorders
- Skin disorders
- Endocrine disorders
- Congenital disorders that affect multiple body systems
- Neurological (brain function) disorders
- Mental disorders
- Malignant neoplastic (tumor) disorders
- Immune system disorders
Each of these general categories contains descriptions of the specific disorders and severities that could qualify for benefits.
After the Blue Book
Once you have looked over the blue book and determined that your child could qualify for benefits, your next step is to contact a disability lawyer. Although you may think that filing a claim on your own will be easier and faster than dealing with an attorney, 20 years’ worth of experience says otherwise. Not only are SSA applications deliberately confusing, but even small mistakes can cost you an approval. Why take the risk?
We believe that if your child is injured or is suffering from a debilitating ailment he deserves benefit approval, and we’ll fight to make it happen. Call today for a free consultation and see how our representation is right for your family.
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Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 508.283.5500 to schedule your free consultation.
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