If you have a disability and receive Social Security Disability benefits, then your children may be entitled to benefits as well. There are several kinds of dependent children benefits that children may receive. They may also be entitled to Supplemental Security Income, which may increase the payments they receive each month.
Children who qualify for Social Security Benefits are either the adopted or biological children of adults who are eligible for Social Security Benefits. They will also have to show that they are:
- Unmarried
- Under 19 if they are in high school or under 18 if they are not in school
- Are 18 or older and also disabled, so long as that disability started in childhood and before the age of 22
Children receiving Social Security Benefits may also receive Supplemental Security Income in some cases. To get this, children under 18 need to show that they have impairments of a physical or mental nature that cause severe, marked limitations. These need to last for, or be expected to last for, at least 12 months or be terminal.
There is an exception to the rule for those who are visually impaired. Blind children do not need to prove the 12-month duration to qualify.
How much income can children receive from Social Security Disability benefits?
Children receive 50% of the retirement or disability benefits that their parents are entitled to receive. If the parent passes away, then the children are able to receive up to 75% of the parent’s retirement benefits.
There is a maximum family benefit to consider if there are several children in the home. This may range from 150% to 180%. The formula takes into consideration the parent’s work record, disability and other factors.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income is possible for children of people with disabilities in most cases. Your attorney can help you put together the application for benefits, so that your family has more incoming coming in to support your children and your living arrangements. This is one helpful arrangement that could boost your income and make life with a disability just a little bit easier.