Blog

Can My Child Qualify for SSDI?

Social Security benefits are not limited to adults. If a disabled adult, who qualifies for SSDI benefits, has dependents who completely rely on them for food, shelter & clothing, the dependents may qualify for payments as well. This is called dependent benefits. In other words, the Social Security system isn’t just for adults. In fact, this is one reason children are assigned Social Security numbers soon after birth.

Does My Child Need to be Disabled to Receive Benefits?

Absolutely not. They do not need to be disabled to qualify. However, there is a list of qualifications which need to be met. They are:

• Child must be unmarried and under 18 years old (19 years old if still in school)
• They must be related to you in at least one of the following ways:

1. Your biological child
2. Your child through adoption
3. Your stepchild
4. Your grandchild only if you have custody and there is no living parent
5. Your stepchild and they are legally adopted and have no living parent

How Much Can My Child Receive?

Your dependent can receive between 50%-75% of what you are receiving. For example: If you are receiving $1500 per month then your child may receive $750+ per month. If you have multiple children the maximum you can receive in totality is 180% of your disability benefit.

What Will I Need to Apply for Benefits for My Child?

1. You will need your dependent’s birth certificate or adoption papers.
2. You will need their proof of citizenship.
3. Any tax forms if your child earned any income.
4. If you are separated from the biological parent, you will need to show a timesharing agreement, so Social Security knows which parent shall receive that additional money.

If the dependent is a stepchild you will need proof that you are married to their biological parent.

If you have further questions please do not hesitate to contact us and we will respond as soon as possible.