Retirement benefits from Social Security are typically thought of as monthly payouts. However, there is another significant aspect of Social Security benefits that helps children financially. If a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased, the children may be eligible for benefits. Every year, Social Security benefits are paid to more than 4 million children in the US. Find out more about Social Security benefits for children below.
What is Social Security Child’s Benefits ?
Social Security benefits for children are payments made to the minor children of a parent who is receiving Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. These benefits are intended to provide financial support for children who have lost a parent, or who have a parent who is unable to work due to a disability or retirement.
To be eligible for Social Security benefits for children, the child must be unmarried and under the age of 18, or between the ages of 18 and 19 and still in high school. Children who are disabled and become disabled before the age of 22 may also be eligible for benefits.
The amount of the Social Security benefit for a child depends on the earnings history of the parent who is receiving benefits, as well as the number of eligible children. Typically, the benefit amount is around 50% of the parent's full retirement or disability benefit.
It's important to note that Social Security benefits for children are not means-tested, so they are not affected by the income or resources of the child or the family. However, there are income limits for children who are working while receiving benefits, and excess earnings can result in a reduction in the benefit amount.
How Does Social Security Benefits for Children Work?
Social Security child benefits are a type of Social Security benefit that provides financial support to the dependent children of a parent who is receiving Social Security disability, retirement, or survivor benefits.
The purpose of child's benefits is to provide financial support to children who have lost a parent or who have a parent who is unable to work due to a disability or retirement. The child's benefit is based on the earnings record of the parent who is receiving Social Security benefits, and it is paid to the child's guardian or parent.
Social Security benefits for children are paid to the parent or guardian of the child, typically on a monthly basis (Social Security Payment Schedule). If both parents are receiving Social Security benefits, the child may receive benefits based on the higher earning parent's record.
There are income limits for children who are working while receiving benefits, and excess earnings can result in a reduction in the benefit amount. Additionally, benefits usually end when the child turns 18 (or 19 if still in high school), but may continue for a disabled child or a child whose parent died and who is still in high school.
Who is Eligible for Social Security Child's Benefits ?
To be eligible for Social Security benefits as a child, the following requirements must be met:
- The child must be under the age of 18, or under the age of 19 if they are still in high school.
- The child must be unmarried.
- The child must be either the biological child, adopted child, or dependent stepchild of the Social Security beneficiary (i.e., the parent or guardian who is eligible for benefits).
- The child must be dependent on the Social Security beneficiary for at least half of their support.
- The Social Security beneficiary must be either retired, disabled, or deceased and have a sufficient work history to qualify for Social Security benefits.
- The child is an adult (18 or older) with a disability that began before turning 22 years old.
In addition, the child must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and not having a substantial income of their own. The amount of the child's benefit is based on the earnings record of the Social Security beneficiary.
It's important to note that there are some exceptions to these requirements. For example, disabled children may be eligible for benefits even if they are over the age of 18, as long as their disability began before the age of 22. Additionally, grandchildren and other dependents may be eligible for benefits in certain situations.
If you believe that your child may be eligible for Social Security benefits, it's a good idea to contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to discuss your options and determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements.
How Much Can Child Receive from Social Security Benefits ?
The amount that your child could receive from Social Security benefits depends on several factors, including the earnings record of the parent or guardian who is eligible for benefits, the number of family members who are eligible for benefits, and whether the child has any other sources of income.
As a general rule, a child can receive up to 50% of the parent's full retirement or disability benefits. If a child receives survivors benefits, they can get up to 75% of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit.
However, there is a maximum family benefit amount that limits the total amount that a family can receive based on the earnings record of one individual. Every Social Security benefit calculation includes a calculation of the maximum family payout.
It might range from 150% to 180% of the parent’s full benefit amount. If the entire amount paid to all family members exceeds this cap, they proportionally lower each person's benefit until the overall sum is equal to the maximum permitted amount. Since it does not count against the maximum permissible amount, they do not lower the parent's benefit amount.
For example, if only one child is eligible for benefits, the maximum family benefit amount is typically around 150-180% of the parent's benefit amount. If there are multiple children eligible for benefits, the maximum family benefit amount is typically around 180-200% of the parent's benefit amount.
It's important to note that the actual amount of Social Security child benefits that a child receives may be reduced if the child has other sources of income, such as wages or investments. Additionally, the child may be subject to income tax on their benefits if they have significant income from other sources.
To get an estimate of how much your child could receive in Social Security benefits, you can use the SSA's online benefit calculator. This tool will ask you for information about your earnings history and your child's information, and then provide you with an estimate of the monthly benefit amount that your child could receive.
What you will need when Apply for Child’s Benefits ?
When you apply for benefits for your child, you will need to provide the child's birth certificate and Social Security number, as well as your own Social Security number and proof of your eligibility for Social Security benefits (such as your own birth certificate, W-2 forms, or tax returns).
Other documentation can be needed, depending on the kind of benefit involved. For example, you'll need to present evidence of the parent's death if you're requesting survivors benefits for the child. You must present medical documentation to support your claim for assistance on behalf of a kid with a disability. What further documentation you might need will be explained to you by the Social Security representative assisting with your application.
How to Apply for Social Security Child's Benefits ?
You can apply for Social Security child benefits by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or by visiting your local Social Security office. Although it is not necessary to make an appointment, but doing so may help you spend less time waiting to submit your application. You can submit an SSI for children application online. To apply for benefits, follow these steps:
1) Determine your eligibility:
Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for Social Security child benefits, as described in my previous answer.
2) Choose your application method:
You can apply for Social Security child benefits by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Parents and children cannot apply online for child benefits. For application information, please visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website and follow the instructions for applying for child benefits. To apply by phone or in person, call your local SSA office.
3) Complete the application:
Fill out the application form with your personal and financial information, as well as the child's information. Be sure to provide all necessary documentation, such as the child's birth certificate and proof of your own eligibility for Social Security benefits.
4) Submit the application:
Once you have completed the application and gathered all required documentation, submit the application to the SSA. If you are applying online, you can submit the application electronically. If you are applying by phone or in person, you will need to provide the application and documentation to the SSA representative.
5) Follow up on your application:
After submitting your application, you can check the status of your claim online, by phone, or by visiting a Social Security office. You should receive a decision from the SSA within a few weeks.
How to Contact for Social Security Benefits ?
If you have questions about Social Security benefits for children, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) using the following methods:
1) Phone:
You can call the SSA's toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can call TTY 1-800-325-0778.
2) Website:
You can visit the SSA's website at www.ssa.gov to get information on Social Security benefits for children, including eligibility requirements and how to apply.
3) In person:
You can visit your local SSA office to speak with a representative in person. To find your nearest office, use the SSA's office locator tool at www.ssa.gov/locator.
4) Mail:
You can send a letter to the SSA at the following address: Social Security Administration, Office of Public Inquiries, 1100 West High Rise, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21235.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a child receive benefits if both parents are alive and receiving Social Security?
Yes, a child can receive benefits based on the earnings record of both parents, but the total amount of benefits the child can receive is limited.
At what age do child benefits stop?
Benefits for a child generally stop when the child reaches age 18, or age 19 if the child is still in high school. However, benefits can continue beyond these ages if the child has a disability that began before age 22.
Can child benefits be paid retroactively?
Yes, in some cases child benefits can be paid retroactively for up to six months prior to the date the application was filed.
Are child benefits taxable?
Yes, a portion of the child's benefits may be subject to federal income tax, depending on the child's total income and the income of their parents.
What is the maximum age for a child to receive Social Security child benefits?
A child can receive benefits until age 18 (or 19 if still in high school) or until they marry, whichever comes first. However, if the child is disabled, benefits may continue beyond age 18.
How much can a child receive in Social Security child benefits?
The amount of the child's benefit is based on the earnings record of the Social Security beneficiary. Generally, a child can receive up to 50% of the parent's benefit amount.
Can a child receive benefits from more than one parent?
Yes, a child can receive benefits based on the earnings records of both parents if both are eligible for Social Security benefits and the child meets the eligibility requirements.
Can a grandchild receive children's Social Security benefits?
In some cases, a grandchild may be eligible for benefits if they are being raised by their grandparent(s) and the grandparent(s) are eligible for Social Security benefits.
Can a stepchild receive Social Security child benefits?
Yes, a stepchild can receive benefits if they are dependent on the Social Security beneficiary for at least half of their support and meet the other eligibility requirements.
What is the application process for Social Security benefits for children?
The parent or guardian of the child should apply for benefits on behalf of the child. The application can be completed by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Required documentation may include the child's birth certificate, Social Security number, and proof of the parent's eligibility for Social Security benefits.