Social Security provides SSI disability benefits to certain infants born with a low birth weight whether or not they are premature. A child weighing less than 1200 grams (about 2 pounds, 10 ounces) at birth can qualify for SSI based on low birth weight. A child weighing between 1200 and 2000 grams (about 4 pounds, 6 ounces) at birth and considered small for his or her gestational age also may qualify.
To satisfy our criteria, the following chart shows the gestational age at birth and corresponding birth weight.
Gestational Age Weight at Birth
(in weeks)
37-40 Less than 2000 grams
(4 pounds, 6 ounces)
36 1875 grams or less
(4 pounds, 2 ounces)
35 1700 grams or less
(3 pounds, 12 ounces)
34 1500 grams or less
(3 pounds, 5 ounces)
33 1325 grams or less
(2 pounds, 15 ounces)
If the child was not born prematurely or with a low birth weight, he or she may still qualify.
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