7 Questions About Social Security for Children Most Parents Don’t Know To Ask

Social Security benefits aren’t just for retirees — they can also provide financial support for children when a parent retires, becomes disabled, or passes away. These benefits can help cover essential expenses for children who depend on their parents' income.

However, many parents don’t fully understand how these benefits work or if their child qualifies. Knowing the facts can help you make money moves to protect your family’s financial future.

A child may qualify for Social Security benefits if a parent is receiving retirement or disability benefits, or has passed away. Eligible children include biological, adopted, and sometimes stepchildren or dependent grandchildren.

To receive benefits, the child must be unmarried and either under 18, a full-time student under 19, or have a disability that began before age 22​. The amount a child receives depends on the parent's Social Security earnings record.

The amount a child can receive depends on the parent’s Social Security benefit amount. Generally, a child is eligible to receive up to 50% of a living parent’s disability or retirement benefit.

If the parent has passed away, the child may receive up to 75% of the deceased parent’s benefit​. For example, if a deceased parent received a $2,500 monthly benefit, the child would be eligible for $1,875 in monthly survivor benefits.

However, there is a family maximum limit, which typically ranges from 150% to 180% of the parent’s full retirement or disability benefit.

In certain cases, a grandparent's Social Security benefits may extend to a dependent grandchild.

To qualify, the grandchild must have been living with the grandparent before age 18 and have received at least 50% of their financial support from the grandparent for the year before the month they became entitled to retirement or disability insurance benefits or died.

Generally, to be eligible for benefits, the grandparent must legally adopt the grandchild, or the grandchild needs to have parents who died or are disabled.

In most cases, Social Security benefits for children end when they turn 18. However, there are two major exceptions.

If the child is still a full-time elementary or secondary school student, benefits continue until they graduate or until two months after they turn 19, whichever comes first. Additionally, children with a qualifying disability that began before age 22 may continue receiving benefits beyond age 18​.

Parents or guardians should notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) about these changes to avoid overpayments.

Yes, a child with a disability may be eligible for Social Security benefits in two ways. If the parent is receiving Social Security benefits because they retire, become disabled, or die, the child may qualify for dependent or survivor benefits.

If the child’s disability significantly limits their ability to work, they may also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides financial assistance based on family income and resources​.

Parents or guardians must apply for Social Security benefits on behalf of a child by contacting the SSA. The application process requires providing the child’s birth certificate or proof of adoption as well as both the parent’s and child’s Social Security numbers.

In cases of disability benefits, medical documentation is also required​. It’s important to apply as soon as possible to receive the full benefits you may be entitled to.

Yes, a child receiving SSI benefits is usually eligible for other need-based programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Medicaid.

When receiving additional benefits, SSI benefits will not be reduced since it does not count as regular income in the same way. Families should check with program administrators to understand the full benefits that may be available to their child.

If your child qualifies for Social Security benefits, it can provide important financial support, especially in challenging circumstances. However, eligibility rules and benefit amounts vary, so staying informed is essential.

Understanding how Social Security benefits for children work can help you protect your wealth and ensure your child’s financial security. Are you taking full advantage of the benefits available to your family?