Most people associate Social Security with checks for older adults entering retirement or with support for the disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides significant family benefits for people who are deceased, retired, or disabled workers. Such benefits have been set up to make sure that all members of the family of workers who have paid Social Security taxes have some financial protection.
The program could cover a plethora of eligible family members: spouses, children, and in some cases even grandchildren—each eligible for monthly checks that may make a significant difference to a household budget. Anyone trying to sort out their family situation with respect to Social Security must know who qualifies, how much might be received and the whole procedure.
Social Security Benefits by Families
Retirement benefits– To the spouse of a retired worker and dependants, benefits may accrue solely because of their relationship to the worker with a record of earnings.
Survivor Benefits- If the worker is gone, the family members, including the spouse, children, and dependent parents, may be eligible for a monthly payment.
Disability Benefits (SSDI)– If a disabled worker becomes incapacitated, the spouse and children of that individual can receive benefits according to the worker’s record.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)– Aid to people with low incomes disqualified from resources is designated for including children with disabilities and older individuals who have limited means.
Who Can Get Family Benefits From Social Security?
Several family members can indeed get benefits from the worker’s Social Security record.
- Spouse or ex-spouse: A current spouse may qualify based on age (62 or older) or if he/she cares for a child under 16 years old or disabled. Former spouses may be qualified as well, given that their marriage was of at least ten years’ duration and they have reached age or caregiving qualifications.
- Child: Unmarried children 18 years and younger, 18-19 years and still enrolled full-time in high school, or have a disability that developed before the age of 22 may be eligible. Under certain circumstances, even stepchildren, adopted children, grandchildren and step-grandchildren may possibly qualify.
Family members eligible may receive monthly payments that would augment the household income.
- Monthly amount: 50% of the employee’s full retirement or disability payment may be given to each family member. However, a family maximum—generally between 150% and 180% of the employee’s full benefit—will reduce individual payments if too many family members are eligible.
- Medicare eligibility: Some family members may be eligible for Medicare based on the employee’s account. Medicare is an important source of healthcare coverage.
- Any changes in life: for example, marriage, enrollment in school, or status in caregiving—should be reported so that the benefits can properly reflect any changes that arise.
To obtain more information or apply for the benefits, go to the official Social Security website at ssa.gov/family.
Social Security benefits can be applied for in the following manner:
- Online: Go through the SSA’s site.
- Phone: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
- In-Person: At a Social Security office.
- Documents needed: birth certificate, marriage certificate, tax papers, and Social Security number.
Final Thoughts
Social Security benefits provides very important economic assistance to families and spouses, children and survivors, to achieve some economic stability. Learning about the eligibility criteria as well as the application process can help families maximize their benefits. Contact the Social Security Administration or visit its website to apply now if you feel you and your family might be eligible.
FAQS:
Who qualifies for family Social Security benefits?
Eligibility is based on the Social Security record of the worker. Spouses, children, and sometimes dependent parents may be eligible for benefits.
Can a spouse obtain Social Security benefits?
Yes, a spouse may obtain benefits due to the work record of the partner without holding any work history.
What exactly would be children Social Security benefits?
Children may receive benefits under the retired, disabled, or deceased worker if they are under the age of 18 (or up to 19 if still in high school).
How much Social Security benefits a family can receive?
The amount varies but is generally a percentage of the worker’s full retirement or disability benefit with a family maximum limit.