There are many people in California who qualify for Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI) if they are unable to work. The dollar amount that people receive depends on a number of different factors, but their eligibility is based on the specifics of their situation.
Many people who receive SSDI also have families they need to provide for. The amount they receive for their individual disability may not be enough to pay for the expenses of their children. This can create a difficult situation for them as they try to make ends meet.
Children of parents receiving SSDI may be able to receive their own benefits based on the disability of their parent. The amount each child receives depends on the number of children and the parents’ monthly SSDI benefit.
Typically, children can receive up to 50% of the parents’ monthly benefit, but the total family benefit generally does not exceed 150% – 180% of the parent’s monthly benefit.
Qualification requirements for children to receive benefits
In order to receive the benefits, children need to qualify for them. To be eligible, the applicant must be a biological child, an adopted child, stepchild or a dependent grandchild.
The children must be unmarried and under 18 or up to 19 years old if they are still in high school. Children who are disabled may also be able to receive benefits past their 18th birthday if the disability occurred prior to the children’s 22nd birthday.
For children who qualify in California, these benefits can be lifesavers.
Filling out the applications properly is important to ensure that the children will receive the benefits they are entitled to. Experienced attorneys understand the qualification requirements and may be able help guide one through the application process.
