Teens can be entitled to Social Security benefits as disabled individuals under three different Programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI); regular Social Security benefits as a disabled worker; and/or as disabled dependent child on anotherís Social Security record. In all three situations the individual has to have a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last for 12 months or result in death. For Social Security benefits, the impairment must prevent you from working. For SSI benefits, the impairment of a child under age 18 must result in marked and severe functional limitations.

SSI is needs based program. Eligibility depends on the individualís income and resources. If the child is under the age of 18, the income and resources of others in the household is included in determining eligibility.

The child can be entitled to disability benefits on their own record if they meet the disability definition and had enough work under Social Security. They need a recent work history and duration of work to meet the earnings requirement. For someone 24 or younger, 1.5 years (six quarters of coverage) of work is needed for entitlement. These 1.5 years have to be in the 3 years prior to becoming disabled.

To be entitled to as a dependent disabled child on anotherís record, the worker must be receiving retirement or disability Social Security benefits or must have died and have worked long enough under Social Security. If the child is under age 18, we pay regular dependent benefits and the disability decision is made to continue benefits after age 18.

An important point is you ought to try now to make the determination about you childís entitlement by applying for benefits and letting the Social Security Administration make the decision!

You can contact the Social Security Administration on line at http://www.socialsecurity.gov or by telephone 1 800 772-1213. The online site will give you information about other Social Security programs.

- Terry Lynch, retired director for SSA