Raising a child with a disability can be filled with deep joy and unique challenges, including financial ones. From therapies to medical equipment, the cost of care can strain even the most carefully planned budgets. Thankfully, various public programs and nonprofit resources are designed to ease this burden. Here are 10 financial resources that can help lighten the load.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Administered by the Social Security Administration, SSI provides monthly payments to low-income families of children with disabilities. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it’s based on financial need, not work history. To qualify, your child must meet specific disability criteria, and your family must fall within income and asset limits. SSI funds can be used for basic needs, and qualifying for SSI often means automatic Medicaid eligibility. Applying requires detailed documentation and can be done online, by phone, or in person.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program providing healthcare coverage to low-income families. Children who qualify for SSI typically qualify for Medicaid as well. Even without SSI, many states offer Medicaid waiver programs specifically for children with medical needs. Medicaid can cover doctor visits, therapy, equipment, and sometimes in-home support or respite care. Application processes vary by state, so check with your local Medicaid office for eligibility details.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

CHIP is a state-federal partnership that helps families who earn too much for Medicaid but can’t afford private insurance. It offers low-cost coverage for kids up to age 19 in most states. CHIP provides comprehensive health coverage, including doctor visits, immunizations, prescriptions, and hospital services. Contact your state’s CHIP agency for eligibility details and application procedures.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF is a federal program providing grants to states for services, including cash assistance, to low-income families with children. Though not specific to families of children with disabilities, TANF can help cover essentials like housing and food, and some states offer support services like childcare and job training. Contact your local or state Department of Social Services to see what’s available in your area.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, helps families afford nutritious food. Income eligibility varies by state, but families caring for a child with disabilities may qualify for more extensive benefits or special deductions. SNAP benefits are issued on an EBT card and accepted at most grocery stores. You can apply through your state’s Department of Social Services.

ABLE Accounts

Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities that began before age 26. These accounts let families save for future expenses, like housing, transportation, healthcare, or education, without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Contributions are not federally tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Dependent Benefits

If a parent receives SSDI, their children may qualify for monthly dependent benefits. Children must be unmarried and under 18 (or 19 if still in high school). If your adult child is disabled, they may qualify for “adult child” benefits under certain conditions. Dependent benefits can provide additional monthly income to the family. You can apply through the Social Security Administration when the parent applies or if they are already receiving SSDI.

State-Specific Disability Programs

Beyond federal aid, many states offer additional programs tailored to children with disabilities. These may include respite care, grants for home or vehicle modifications, or specialized therapies. Contact your state’s Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Developmental Disabilities, or Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) to learn more about available programs.

Grants From Nonprofit Organizations

Many nonprofits provide grants or financial assistance for families with disabled children. Some focus on specific diagnoses, while others offer broader support. Grants may help pay for adaptive equipment, medical bills, recreational programs, or therapies. Start by researching organizations related to your child’s condition and connect with disability-specific organizations and support groups for tips on available funding.

Tax Deductions and Credits

Families raising children with disabilities may be eligible for valuable tax breaks, including the child tax credit, dependent care credit, and deductions for qualified medical expenses. In some cases, additional credits may apply based on the child’s needs or level of care required. Because eligibility can vary depending on your income, expenses, and filing status, it’s a good idea to consult a tax professional familiar with disability-related tax rules. They can help you understand which benefits apply to your situation and ensure you have the proper documentation to support your claims.

Financial planning for a child with a disability can feel overwhelming. These resources can help ease the burden. Take time to research eligibility and application requirements. Also, contact social workers, disability organizations, and financial advisors for guidance and support in securing the financial assistance your family needs.

 

Have questions about these programs or planning for the future? Our financial experts are here to help.

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