Social Security 101 For those Raising Grandkids

Carla Christian

50plus Magazine

MOST OF US EXPECT RAISING CHILDREN to be a season that ends with the kids being launched. Then it’s time for leisure and an empty nest. For some parents however, the retirement nest is feathered with . . . more chicks.

Nearly three million grandparents in the US are raising grandchildren. If you are part of a “grandfamily,” you may qualify for additional benefits from Social Security.

•  Your grandchild (or step-grandchild) must be unmarried and of an eligible age — either younger than 18, between 18 and 19 and a full-time student grade 12 or below, or 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.

Eligibility may involve meeting several requirements, including:

•  Your grandchild’s biological parents must be disabled or deceased, or you have legally adopted  your grandchild.

•  Your grandchild may not be receiving benefits from a parent when you become eligible for benefits.

•  The natural parent(s) of your grandchild cannot be making regular contributions to the child’s support.

•  Your grandchild must have begun living with you before age 18 and received at least half of their support from you for the year before you become eligible for Social Security. 

Your grandchild may also be entitled to other types of benefits, such as: 

Survivor Benefits.  If one of your grandchild’s birth parents was qualified for Social Security and has died or become disabled, you may be able to collect that parent’s Social Security.

Disability Benefits.  A child can receive up to one-half of their parents’ or caregiving grandparents’ benefits if the adults are disabled. 

Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSI provides payments to children (up to age 22 if they are in school) who meet Social Security’s definition of child disability and whose family income and resources fall within the eligibility limits.

Social Security rules around benefits for grandchildren can be complex. If you are raising your grandchild, contact Social Security to learn which benefits you are entitled to. Find an office near you at www.ssa.gov.