CT SB00272

Requires placement plans for children in the care and custody of the Commissioner of Children and Families to document whether the child is eligible for Social Security Administration benefits, including Supplemental Security Income and survivor/disabled adult child benefits.

Mandates the Department of Children and Families to complete and submit Supplemental Security Income applications for eligible children in its custody, appeal any denials, and maintain correspondence regarding applications and benefits.

Requires the department to determine whether children age 17 and older need a representative payee to manage Social Security benefits and identify an appropriate payee if needed.

Requires the department to provide assistance to children age 17 and older who do not need a representative payee, including education about maintaining Social Security eligibility and managing bank accounts for electronic direct deposit of benefits.

Takes effect October 1, 2012.