Social Security Disability SSI - Working Parent, Autistic Child   "I have an autistic child who is 14 y/o and he just began receiving SSI the last year that I have not worked due to dealing with issues that have to do with my child. Now that my child's situation is better I was getting ready to jump back into the work force. Well it turns out that my 4 y/o may have autism. He is having several issues and I would like to know if while I settle this 2nd child into therapies and such would he qualify for additional SSI? I really want to head back to work but I want to make sure my boys are taken care of financially while I can get back to work. Thanks!" The fact that you have one autistic child who is receiving SSI disability benefits in no way affects your ability to apply for, and receive SSI disability benefits for, your younger son. But since SSI disability benefits are based upon income and resources, it is more likely that your re-entering the work force would have more of an effect upon your children's ability to receive SSI disability benefits. In fact, it is possible that both your children may be determined to be medically disabled according to the guidelines of the SSI disability program and still be unable to receive a monetary benefit due to your work activity and earned income. Until the age of eighteen children's SSI benefit amounts and eligibility are affected by their parents income, which means if your income may put your family above the income limits for the SSI disability program. Should this be the case, your children's benefits may be terminated. Additionally, if an SSI beneficiary's benefits are terminated for more than a year, they must begin the entire disability process again. Even if your income does not terminate your children's SSI disability benefits, there is the possibility that it could drastically reduce their monetary monthly benefits amount. I should mention the possibility of your child or children's medicaid eligibility being affected by your income as well. Both SSI disability and Medicaid are need-based disability programs; consequently eligibility for these programs is affected by income and resources. There is no real way for anyone to really advise you as to what you should do, however I hope this information will aid you in determining whether or not it is the best decision to return to work. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How to file for disability in Louisiana Are most disability claims denied by SSA? Disability benefits and being severely disabled Filing for Social Security Disability if you are military retired Proving Functional Limitations and why this is Important on a Disability Case Filing for disability and ankylosing spondylitis SSI Back Pay after being Approved Are most disability claims denied by SSA? Disability benefits and being severely disabled Filing for Social Security Disability if you are military retired How many people get approved for disability from Social Security? What Forms Do You Use to File For Social Security Disability? Filing for disability and financial help Getting approved after a Social Security Disability Psychological exam How long does it take to receive disability benefits after you are approved? How to file for disability in Wisconsin The difference between Social Security Disability and SSI Filing for disability with migraines