En español | Yes, under certain conditions. Social Security may pay dependent or survivor benefits to your grandchild if the parents are deceased or disabled or if you have legally adopted the child. The child’s parents, if living, must not be making regular contributions to his or her support.

Does guardianship affect Social Security?

Once SSDI or SSI benefits are approved, SSA will review the application to determine if the beneficiary can handle his or her cash benefit. SSA does not recognize powers of attorney or guardians appointed in state court.

What makes a guardian a guardian?

A guardian is someone who’s chosen — either by a court or by being named in a legal document such as a will — to make decisions for someone (generally referred to as the “ward”) who can’t make decisions for him or herself.

How old do you have to be to get Social Security benefits for a grandchild?

If you have not claimed your own benefits yet, you must show that the grandchild began living with you before turning 18 and that you provided at least half of his or her financial support for one year before the month you became entitled to Social Security retirement or disability benefits.

Do you get Social Security if you have custody of your grandchildren?

This, unfortunately, means that even if you have primary custody of your grandchildren and their parents are no longer in their lives, you will not receive any additional benefits on behalf of your grandkids. How Much More Income Could Your Family Earn?

Can a step-granddaughter get Social Security disability?

Biological grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and adopted grandchildren are all eligible for additional disability benefits, but your family must meet one of the following criteria for your monthly benefits to increase:

Can a caregiver of a child get Social Security?

Raising Your Grandchildren and Social Security Benefits If you’re the primary caregiver of your grandchildren, you may be eligible for additional Social Security disability or retirement benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers monthly benefits for people who are disabled and unable to work, and of course to retired workers.