Can You Collect Social Security Survivor Benefits From Grandparents?
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Social Security survivor benefits exist to help families through difficult times. While most people know that spouses and children can receive benefits when a parent dies, fewer realize that in some cases, grandchildren may qualify for monthly payments based on a grandparent’s work record.
This can be a crucial source of income for families where grandparents are the primary caregivers. But the rules for eligibility are specific and can be tricky to navigate.
Here’s How Grandchildren Can Qualify
For a grandchild to receive survivor benefits, the grandparent must have earned enough Social Security credits through work to be eligible for retirement or disability benefits. But meeting that requirement alone is not enough. The relationship between the grandparent and grandchild matters as well.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires proof that the grandchild was financially dependent on the grandparent. In most cases, this means the child must have been living with the grandparent before turning 18 and receiving at least half of their support for the year prior to the grandparent’s death or the time they began collecting retirement or disability benefits.
If the grandchild was born within that year, the SSA looks for evidence that the grandparent provided half of the support from birth until death or benefit eligibility. These rules also apply to step-grandchildren and legally adopted grandchildren.
When Is Adoption Required?
If both the grandparent and their spouse are already receiving Social Security benefits before taking custody of the child, formal adoption is generally required for the child to qualify. This step can be a hurdle for some caregivers, especially those with informal custody arrangements.
Legal adoption or guardianship not only helps with survivor benefits but also ensures that grandparents can make critical decisions about a child’s health, schooling and finances.
How Survivor Benefits Are Calculated
Survivor benefits are based on the late grandparent’s Social Security earnings record. A qualifying grandchild typically receives 75% of what the grandparent was entitled to at full retirement age. If there are multiple surviving dependents, such as a widow, widower or other children, the SSA applies a family maximum, usually between 150% and 180% of the grandparent’s benefit amount, and adjusts payments proportionally so that the total does not exceed the limit.
Here's What You Need to Apply
Applying for survivor benefits requires documentation to prove the relationship and dependency. Expect to provide the grandchild’s birth certificate, the grandparent’s death certificate, proof of support (such as tax returns, school records or bank statements) and Social Security numbers for all parties. You cannot apply for survivor benefits online; you must call SSA’s national helpline or visit a local office to begin the process.
Planning Ahead for Financial Security
Social Security survivor benefits are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to protecting a child’s future. Grandparents raising grandchildren may also qualify for other forms of financial support, such as child tax credits, state guardianship subsidies or Supplemental Security Income for children with disabilities.