Government Help for Children With Delayed Speech Development

Supplemental Security Income

• The Social Security Administration makes monthly payments, called Supplemental Security Income (SSI), to disabled children younger than 18. SSI has some strict rules, including a definition of ̶0;disabled̶1; that states children must have a physical or mental condition that severely limits their daily activities, and this condition must have been disabling for at least one year. If your child only has a speech delay and no other disability, he likely will not qualify for SSI under this definition.

Medicaid

• According to Social Security, Medicaid is available to individuals with low income and limited resources, and even if your child does not qualify for SSI, he can possibly get Medicaid. According to Medicaid.gov, most children in families with annual incomes of $44,700 or less are likely eligible for Medicaid. In some states, the allowable annual income is higher than $44,700. Medicaid benefits include periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment.

Children's Health Insurance Program

• The Children̵7;s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health insurance for those families whose annual income is too high to receive Medicaid but who still cannot afford private health insurance. According to Medicaid.gov, the average CHIP annual income for eligibility is 241 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Each state has its own benefits and eligibility for CHIP. Often, preventive care, check-ups, hospital care, dental and lab work are a part of CHIP benefits. Other services, such as speech therapy for a child with delayed speech development, might be offered with low premiums or cost-share.

Individuals With Disabilities Education Act

• The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, called IDEA, ensures services for individuals with disabilities up through age 21. Each child in special education under IDEA has an Individualized Education Plan, or IEP, which is a written list of services a child will receive. For your child with delayed speech development, specific goals for the classroom as well as supplemental services like speech therapy will be included in his IEP.

Considerations

• Social Security also says it will refer you to your state children̵7;s agencies for medical or developmental services; even if your child does not receive SSI, these state organizations might be able to help. Additionally, non-profit organizations, such as the United Healthcare Children̵7;s Foundation, provide financial assistance to services not covered by your health insurance plan.