In the U.S., Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits are typically only available to qualifying adults with a work history. In order to qualify for these benefits, disabled adults must have worked and paid into the system. They must accrue a specific number of work credits to qualify. However, children whose parents are disabled, retired, or deceased may also be able to collect benefits.
In 2017 alone, the Social Security Administration paid an average of $2.6 billion each month to more than 4.2 million qualifying children. This money helps children complete high school and pays for food and shelter. When a parent becomes disabled or suddenly passes away, Social Security benefits can help keep the family afloat and provide a vital income for these children.
In order to collect child benefits, you will need to provide the SSA with the child’s birth certificate and Social Security number. You will also need to provide the parent’s Social Security number. If you are applying for survivor benefits, the SSA will also ask you to provide proof of the parent’s death. If you are applying for benefits for a disabled child, you will need to provide qualifying medical evidence of disability.
In a family, a child could receive up to 50 percent of the parent’s full disability benefit. Survivor benefit recipients may receive up to 75 percent of their parent’s Social Security benefit. There is a limit to the amount of money a family can receive in Social Security benefits. This limit is often between 150 and 180 percent of the parent’s full benefit. If multiple family members collect benefits, then the amount payable to each family member may be reduced to equal the maximum allowable amount.
Want to learn more? Download the Beginner's Road Map to SSDI
If you have questions about children and SSDI benefits, we can help. Our Virginia SSDI lawyers only work on Social Security Disability claims. This is why so many individuals and their families turn to us to help them through the disability application and/or appeals process.
Contact Cervoni Disability Law PLLC for a free consultation at 703-241-2625 or email us. You can also visit our website at or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.