Children are entitled to Social Security benefits up to age 18 or up to age 19 if they are still in high school. They receive benefits based on the work record of the parent who is collecting Social Security retirement or disability benefits. If the parent is alive they can receive 50 percent of the parent’s primary insurance amount (PIA) or if the parent is deceased they can collect 75 percent of the parent’s primary insurance amount.
If you are a parent taking care of a child under age 18, the parent can collect Social Security benefits, irregardless of their age. The amount paid will be based on the earning record of their spouse. This benefit will stop once the child reaches age 16. This is referred to as the “Child In Care Benefit”.
The amount that the family receives is applicable to the “Family Maximum” guidelines set by the Social Security Administration.
For help understanding your social security, contact an representative in our office.