The Family Fund said families with a severely disabled child earned less than other families but spent more. They earn 15,270 and spend 21,980, compared to the UK average of 19,968 and 19,970 respectively.
Additional food and transport costs are among the factors behind the near-7,000 shortfall.
Further research by the government-funded charity reveals families with a severely disabled child are running up huge credit bills to cope: they spend 27.61 a week repaying loans compared to the 3.10 national average.
Chief executive Marion Lowe said ministers needed to address the specific needs of disabled children when considering childcare and benefits issues.
"Looking after a severely disabled or seriously ill child costs more," she said. "We believe these families should get triple the level of child benefit to help them avoid getting into debt.
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