Breaking Barriers: Celebrating Women’s Vital Roles as Disability Advocates

Women have always played pivotal roles in shaping societies and breaking down barriers across diverse fields. Women’s History Month is a dedicated time to reflect on their accomplishments, from the suffragette movement to advances in science, technology, and beyond.  

Especially deserving of recognition are women who take on the roles of caregivers and advocates for others, particularly those living with disabilities. They perform the often unpaid labor of caregiving, while juggling other paid work to secure their and their loved one’s financial futures. 

For women caregivers, a common concern is obtaining adequate financial support for their adult child who has a disability. In those circumstances, Social Security is there to help – Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits are available for some adult children with a disability.

Let’s explore what these benefits are and how parents can ensure their eligible adult child receives the financial support they deserve.

Understanding the Benefits 

DAC benefits provide financial assistance to adults who became disabled before the age of 22. These benefits are based on the work record of a parent who is retired, has a disability, or is deceased. Sometimes, a person who was found financially ineligible for SSI during childhood, may become eligible for DAC benefits when they are older.  

Qualifying for Benefits 

For your adult child to qualify for benefits, a few key criteria must be met: 

1. Onset of disability must be before age 22. 
2. Adult child must be unmarried and dependent on a parent who is receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits, or who has passed away. 
3. Their condition must meet Social Security’s definition of “adult” disability. 

Application Process 

Here’s what you should know about navigating the application process: 

1. Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to request an appointment for your adult child to apply for disability benefits. You can schedule an appointment either in person or over the phone. An adult claimant (age 18 or older in the 1st month of eligibility) should always file their own application, but a parent may assist them.  
2. Gather necessary documentation such as the child’s medical records and parent’s work history. To speed up the application process, complete the Adult Disability Report (SSA-3368) and Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration (SSA-827) and have them available at the time of the appointment. You may assist your adult child with this report. 
3. During your appointment, a Social Security representative will go over the application to ensure it is complete. Provide Social Security with copies of any medical reports or information you have in your possession. You don’t need to request information from doctors. Social Security will contact them directly for reports or information they need to decide about their benefits. 

Benefits Beyond Finances 

For the 75% of caregivers who are women, their dedication to their child’s well-being doesn’t end when they reach adulthood. DAC benefits can provide valuable financial support.  

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s acknowledge the unsung heroines who have been the backbone of advocacy for people with disabilities. They work every day to ensure those they love are safe and secure into the future.  

Please share this information with those who may need it. 

Our posting of this blog does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any non-Social Security organization, author, or webpages.

Tags: Disability, Guest blogger, retirement, Survivors

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