Parents of children with disabilities often worry about securing long-term financial support for their child’s future. The Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits program can help you protect your child’s financial well-being. Learn about the eligibility requirements and application process.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits Requirements
The SSA refers to a DAC, also known as a Childhood Disability Beneficiary as an adult who is eligible for benefits based on a parent’s earnings record. To qualify, the child must be at least 18 years old, and the disability must have begun prior to their 22nd birthday. The SSA will review medical evidence confirming the condition was present and met their severity criteria before that age.
How Does a Parent’s Work History Affect DAC Benefits?
A child cannot receive DAC benefits just because they meet the medical requirements. The benefits are drawn directly from their parent’s Social Security earnings record. For this reason, at least one of the following situations must apply:
- You’re currently receiving Social Security retirement benefits.
- You’re currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
- The parent passed away, but worked long enough and paid enough Social Security taxes to qualify for benefits.
If you’re still working and not yet collecting benefits, your child cannot draw on your record yet, though they might qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) on their own.
Additional DAC Eligibility Requirements
In addition to their parent’s work status and the age the disability began, the SSA requires the adult child to meet a few other conditions:
- They must not be married. If they get married, they’ll most likely lose their DAC benefits, though exceptions exist if they marry another person receiving certain Social Security benefits.
- The child must meet the SSA’s strict definition of disability for adults. This means the physical or mental impairment must severely limit their ability to do basic work activities, and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
The child cannot earn more than a specific monthly amount, known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If they work and earn above this limit, the SSA will not consider them disabled.
How Do You Apply For DAC Benefits?
You cannot apply for DAC benefits online. Applications must be filed directly through the SSA by calling 1-800-772-1213, visiting a local field office, or scheduling an appointment. DAC claims require specialized processing that isn’t supported through the online system. Find a local Social Security field office here.
Application Documentation
Documentation you’ll need for a DAC application include:
- Your child’s birth certificate or another way to confirm their birth.
- Your Social Security number and your child’s Social Security number.
- Detailed medical records, doctors’ reports, and school records proving the disability began before age 22.
- W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns if your child has ever worked.
- Details of any previous marriages, if applicable.
Navigating the Social Security system can be time-consuming and stressful, but understanding the requirements and documentation to apply for DAC benefits, will help ensure your child receives the financial and medical support they need.
What Should I Do if My DAC Benefit Application Was Denied?
If your DAC benefit application is denied, this can feel really discouraging, but it’s common for applicants to be turned down on their first attempt. The SSA will explain why they denied your application in their letter, and you have the right to appeal. You have 60 days after receiving your denial letter to file a written appeal. Missing this deadline could result in your disability claim being dismissed, so you may have to restart the application process.
Should I Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer if My Application Was Denied?
Navigating the DAC benefit appeals process and strict deadlines can take a lot of time, be confusing, and stressful. Hiring an experienced Wettermark Keith Social Security attorney can help you work toward a favorable outcome because we understand the complexity of the SSA system, what documentation a Disability Determination Services examiner is looking for, and fight for your rights if there is a hearing for your case. We’ll review all your supporting documents, why your appeal was denied, and work to help pursue the benefits your disabled adult child may be entitled to.
Social Security Disability Attorneys in Alabama, Tennessee & Florida
We have offices in Montgomery, Huntsville, Dothan, Birmingham, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Panama City, and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay anything out of pocket unless you win. Contact Wettermark Keith’s SSD attorneys 24/7 by calling us (877) 455-4518 or filling out our online form to schedule a no-obligation free case consultation. Get started on your appeal today!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance regarding your situation, consult a licensed attorney.
