Social Security Dependent and Survivor Benefits

If you're approved for Social Security disability benefits, your child may also be eligible for benefits based on your earnings record.

If your adult child is disabled and can't do any significant amount work, they may be able to collect Social Security child benefits or SSI disability benefits.

People who work long enough for employers that pay taxes to the Social Security Administration (SSA) can become eligible for Social Security Disability insurance (SSDI).

You might qualify for Social Security parent's benefits if your deceased child provided at least half your support.

If a Social Security disability applicant dies while waiting to be approved for benefits, it may be possible for a family member to continue the claim and receive any benefits owed.

If your adult child is disabled and can't do any significant amount work, they may be able to collect Social Security child benefits or SSI disability benefits.

My husband of 35 years died at age 65. He was collecting Social Security. I'm 58, so I'm not eligible for retirement yet, but I can no longer work due to a bad hip and back problems. Can I get disabled widow's benefits?

Beneficiaries need to know how to collect life insurance and Social Security payments that belonged to the deceased; the executor of the estate doesn't usually handle this task.

In some states, gay and lesbian spouses are now eligible for Social Security benefits based on their same-sex spouse's earnings record.

Same-sex spouses no longer have to adopt their partners' children to make them eligible for federal benefits.

In some states, couples that meet certain criteria are considered to have a “common law” marriage even if they never held a religious or civil marriage ceremony.

While same-sex marriage is legal nationwide, domestic partnerships and civil unions vary by state.