What is the Social Security “Disabled Adult Child” Disability Program?
The Social Security Disability Disabled Adult Child (DAC) program provides monthly benefits to adults with disabilities based on a parent's work record instead of their own. This program helps people whose disabilities began before they turned 22 years old and who are unable to work because of a serious medical condition. Even though the name says "child," the person applying is usually an adult. The word "child" simply means they qualify through a parent's Social Security earnings.
To qualify for DAC benefits, a person must meet several requirements. First, they must have a disability that meets Social Security's definition of disability. The condition must prevent them from performing substantial work and must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. Second, the disability must have started before age 22. Medical records, school records, and other evidence may be used to prove when the disability began.
The applicant must also be unmarried, although there are some exceptions involving marriages to certain Social Security beneficiaries. In addition, one of the person's parents must be receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits, or the parent must have died after earning enough work credits under Social Security.
When someone applies, the Social Security Administration reviews medical evidence, work history, and other records to determine eligibility. If approved, the individual may receive monthly payments and, after a qualifying period, may also become eligible for Medicare. The Disabled Adult Child program provides important financial support and access to health insurance for adults whose disabilities began early in life and who cannot support themselves through full-time employment.
Applying for Disabled Adult Child benefits, either for yourself or for your loved one, can be a confusing and time-consuming process. Please reach out to Melissa Green, Esq. at Maven Law for a free 30-minute consultation to see if our office can help you or your adult child secure the benefits they need.
