Cerebral Palsy Financial Support
Cerebral palsy brings a wide range of costs that families often cannot predict. Medical treatments, adaptive equipment, therapy, and caregiving all add up quickly, even for those with insurance. Families may also face lost income if a parent needs to reduce work hours to provide care. These financial pressures make outside support not just helpful, but essential for long-term stability. By exploring all available resources, parents can reduce stress and focus on their child’s quality of life.
How Do I Get Financial Support For My Child With Cerebral Palsy?
Many children with cerebral palsy will require lifetime care whether it be therapy, surgery, home modifications, or other on-going treatments. These costs can add up quickly and become a financial burden for families. Fortunately, there are ways to get help. A combination of support from the government, charities, and seeking legal help - like medical malpractice lawsuits, can help your family cover the costs of care.
Cerebral palsy malpractice cases often have settlements over $1 million. If your child's cerebral palsy was caused by a preventable birth injury, you may qualify for legal compensation to help cover costs of care. Find out if you're eligible by getting a free case review now.
100% free & confidential. Zero up-front costs.
Government Disability Benefits
The U.S. government has several disability programs that help families cover basic needs. These programs are usually income-based and require proof of disability status. Benefits may include monthly financial assistance, healthcare coverage, and access to supplemental services. Eligibility can vary by state, so families must carefully review local guidelines. Applying early is recommended, as approval can sometimes take several months to process.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly payments to families of children with cerebral palsy who meet income and resource limits. It helps cover basic living costs such as food, clothing, and shelter. To qualify, medical evidence must show the child has a disability that severely limits daily functioning. Many families use SSI as a consistent source of financial stability.
To qualify for SSI, families must meet these requirements:
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Child under 18 with a medically determinable impairment.
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Disability must result in “marked and severe functional limitations.”
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Family income and assets below SSI thresholds (varies by household size).
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U.S. citizenship or lawful residency.
The benefits provided by SSI typically include:
- Monthly cash payments to cover living expenses.
- Automatic Medicaid enrollment in most states.
- Access to additional state-based disability programs.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is generally available for adults with cerebral palsy who have work history or for children whose parents receive Social Security benefits. It differs from SSI in that it is not based on income limits but rather on contributions to Social Security through taxes. Children with CP may also qualify under a parent’s record. SSDI helps support individuals as they transition into independent adulthood.
The requirements to be eligible for SSDI:
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Applicant must have work credits or qualify under a parent’s Social Security record.
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Proof of disability provided through medical documentation.
The benefits provided by SSDI include:
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Monthly financial payments for basic expenses.
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Medicare eligibility after 24 months of receiving SSDI.
Healthcare and Insurance Coverage
Healthcare costs represent one of the largest expenses for families affected by CP. Standard insurance does not always cover therapies, mobility devices, or specialized care. Programs like Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) fill in many of these gaps. In some states, additional Medicaid waivers offer coverage for in-home care and long-term support. Understanding the differences among these programs is key to maximizing financial help.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that provides comprehensive health coverage for children with disabilities. It often covers physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as specialized medical equipment. Income requirements vary by state, but children with significant disabilities often qualify regardless of parental income through waivers. For many families, Medicaid is the backbone of long-term care support.
To qualify for Medicaid, families generally must meet these requirements:
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U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant status.
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Meeting state-specific income or disability requirements.
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Proof of disability provided through medical records.
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In some states, parental income may be disregarded under disability waivers.
The benefits provided by Medicaid include:
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Doctor visits, hospital care, and surgeries.
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Therapy services and durable medical equipment.
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Home nursing, respite care, and personal support services.
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Prescription drug coverage and preventive care.
CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)
CHIP provides affordable healthcare to children whose families earn too much for Medicaid but not enough to afford private insurance. It often includes coverage for therapy, routine doctor visits, and prescriptions. CHIP can be combined with other forms of financial support to reduce overall medical costs. For families in the middle-income range, CHIP helps bridge the gap.
To qualify for CHIP, families must meet these requirements:
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Household income above Medicaid eligibility but below state-specific thresholds.
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Child must be under 19 and a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
The benefits provided by CHIP include:
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Low-cost or free health coverage.
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Preventive care, therapies, and routine doctor visits.
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Prescription medication coverage.
Many cases of cerebral palsy are caused by preventable birth injuries. If you think your child's CP was due to medical negligence, contact us now and get a free case review at zero cost.
Case reviews are 100% free.
Education and School-Based Financial Support
Schools are not just educational centers—they also provide critical financial relief for families. Under federal law, children with cerebral palsy are entitled to free special education services. This can include classroom support, adaptive technology, and therapy provided within the school setting. By law, these supports are delivered at no cost to the family. This ensures children receive both learning opportunities and developmental care.
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
IDEA guarantees that children with CP receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP outlines specific accommodations and services tailored to the child’s needs. Families do not pay for these services, which often include therapies, aides, and assistive technology. This law ensures equal educational access for children with disabilities.
To qualify for IDEA services, families must meet these requirements:
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Child must undergo evaluation by the school system.
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Disability must meet special education criteria under IDEA.
The benefits provided by IDEA include:
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Free therapies within the school setting.
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Classroom accommodations and specialized instruction.
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Adaptive devices and support staff when needed.
Higher Education Scholarships and Grants
As children with CP transition to higher education, financial aid programs become essential. Many universities offer disability scholarships, and nonprofit groups provide grants to cover tuition or housing. Disability services offices also provide accommodations like note-taking assistance or mobility access. These resources reduce financial barriers and support independence in adulthood.
To qualify for higher education support, students must meet these requirements:
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Enrollment in a college, university, or trade school.
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Documentation of disability submitted to the school or grant provider.
The benefits provided by scholarships and grants include:
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Tuition assistance and reduced educational costs.
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Housing support and accessibility accommodations.
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Specialized academic support services.
Quick Fact: On average, raising a child with a disability costs families about four times more than raising a child without a disability, making financial aid and scholarships critical for long-term stability.
Nonprofit and Charitable Support
Nonprofit organizations play a major role in filling funding gaps that government programs may miss. Many provide direct financial aid, grants for medical equipment, or loan closets for mobility devices. These groups are often easier to access and have fewer restrictions than government programs. Families can also connect with local chapters for community-based support. By combining nonprofit assistance with public benefits, families can create a stronger financial foundation.
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
United Cerebral Palsy offers financial assistance, advocacy programs, and access to equipment funding. Many local chapters provide respite care, family support services, and educational workshops. The organization focuses on empowering families while easing financial strain. UCP is one of the most recognized names in cerebral palsy support.
To qualify for UCP assistance, families need to:
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Proof of cerebral palsy diagnosis.
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Additional eligibility rules that vary by local chapter.
The benefits provided by UCP include:
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Grants and financial assistance.
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Access to funding for assistive and mobility equipment.
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Family support services and respite care.
The Cerebral Palsy Foundation
The Cerebral Palsy Foundation connects families to broader advocacy and awareness campaigns. By combining education with financial aid, it serves as both a resource and a community.
Legal and Compensation Options
In some cases, cerebral palsy may result from medical errors during pregnancy or delivery. Families facing this situation may qualify for legal compensation through medical malpractice claims.
Settlements or verdicts can provide lifelong financial security, covering everything from therapies to housing modifications. While legal action can be emotionally challenging, it often provides essential resources for long-term care. Experienced attorneys specializing in birth injury cases can help guide families through this process.
Medical Malpractice Claims
Medical malpractice cases involve proving that negligence caused or contributed to a child’s cerebral palsy. Successful claims can result in significant financial awards that cover lifelong care. Compensation may include therapy costs, future medical expenses, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This legal route is often the only way some families can afford long-term needs.
To qualify for a malpractice claim, families must meet these requirements:
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Proof of medical negligence through records and expert review.
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Documentation showing the child’s cerebral palsy resulted from malpractice.
The average lifetime cost to care for a child with cerebral palsy is over $1.6 million. Find out if your child is eligible for legal compensation. Get a free case review now.
100% free and confidential.
Tax Credits and Deductions
Families of children with cerebral palsy may qualify for specific tax benefits. These can ease the financial burden by reducing annual tax liability.
Tax credits, deductions, and medical expense write-offs provide relief for out-of-pocket costs. Proper documentation and receipts are essential for claiming these benefits. Consulting with a tax professional ensures families don’t miss valuable savings opportunities.
Child and Dependent Care Credit
This credit provides relief for families paying for child care while they work or attend school. For children with disabilities, eligible care costs may include specialized caregivers or after-school programs. The credit directly reduces tax owed rather than just taxable income. It can make a meaningful difference for families balancing work and caregiving.
Requirements to get care relief:
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Must pay for qualified child care for a dependent with disabilities.
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Parent or guardian must be working, seeking work, or in school.
The benefits provided by this tax credit include:
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Tax reduction of up to 35% of eligible expenses.
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Relief for both full-time and part-time caregivers.
Community Fundraising and Crowdsourcing
When traditional funding sources fall short, community support can make up the difference. Families often turn to fundraising events, local charities, or online crowdfunding platforms to cover urgent expenses.
These efforts can pay for wheelchairs, home modifications, or specialized therapies. While not a guaranteed resource, community generosity can be powerful and immediate. Crowdsourcing also helps raise awareness about cerebral palsy beyond financial support.
Crowdfunding Platforms
Websites like GoFundMe allow families to share their story and raise money directly from supporters. Funds can be used for any need, from medical bills to travel costs for treatment.
Successful campaigns often rely on social media sharing and community involvement. While results vary, many families find this to be an accessible way to gather urgent funds.
Moving Forward with Support
Financial support for cerebral palsy is not one single program but a network of resources. From government benefits to nonprofits and legal compensation, families have multiple paths to pursue.
Each option requires research, documentation, and sometimes persistence, but the payoff is security and peace of mind. By using a combination of these supports, families can reduce financial strain and focus on their child’s development.
The goal is always the same: ensuring children with CP have every opportunity to thrive.
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Cerebral Palsy Financial Support FAQs
Written and Reviewed by:
Cerebral Palsy Hub Team
Cerebral Palsy Hub was founded to help support children and their families with cerebral palsy and to create a safe space for those affected. We strive to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information, and tools to help give your child the life they deserve.
Last Updated: September 4, 2025
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