Expanding SSI Access: Understanding Asset Limits for Children with Disabilities

What solutions can policymakers and other stakeholders use to increase the number of children with disabilities who can access Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, in light of asset limit eligibility requirements?

SSI is a cash benefit program for individuals — both children and adults — who have a qualifying disability and meet income, asset, and immigration status requirements. The SSI asset limit requirement can keep many families and children from qualifying for this benefit, which in turn can prevent them from accessing Medicaid and building economic security.

Increasing access for SSI-eligible families by reducing barriers in the SSI application and determination process represents an opportunity for policymakers and other stakeholders to lift children and families above the poverty line. Research shows that SSI can lift nearly half of participants out of poverty; without the program, the child poverty rate would increase 14.8%.

Our fact sheet How to Support SSI Applicants and Expand Access: Understanding Asset Limits for Children with Disabilities explains barriers that families face when attempting to access SSI benefits. It also provides solutions that policymakers and other stakeholders can use to increase the number of children with disabilities who receive SSI benefits.