When Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz accepted the Democratic vice presidential nomination, he emphasized the crucial role that Social Security survivor benefits played in his family’s life. These benefits provided them with financial support and allowed them to maintain their dignity after Walz’s father passed away from lung cancer when he was just 19 years old. This acknowledgment sheds light on the significance of Social Security survivor benefits for children who have lost a parent.
Social Security survivor benefits are available to children who meet specific criteria, such as being unmarried and under the age of 18, attending school full-time up to grade 12, or having a disability that began before the age of 22. These benefits are aimed at providing financial assistance to children who have lost a parent and are calculated based on the deceased parent’s earnings. In the United States, 98 out of 100 children could be eligible for these benefits if a working parent passes away.
Despite the availability of Social Security survivor benefits, many families are unaware of their eligibility. According to data, as many as half of orphaned children in the U.S. are not receiving the benefits they are entitled to. This lack of awareness can prevent children from accessing crucial financial support that could lift them out of poverty.
Recognizing the need to reach out to more families, the Social Security Administration has implemented initiatives to identify eligible children and develop targeted approaches to inform them about these benefits. Strategies include sending information letters to households with potential applicants, creating a new web page on survivor benefits, and collaborating with states and communities to raise awareness.
It is vital for families to understand their rights and options regarding Social Security survivor benefits. Children do not have to live with a parent or receive financial support from them to qualify for these benefits. Additionally, the child’s parents do not need to be married for the child to be eligible. Surviving parents who care for children under the age of 16 may also be entitled to benefits in certain circumstances.
Several factors, such as changes in guardianship, immigration issues, missed deadlines, or administrative errors, can prevent children from accessing the benefits they are entitled to. Streamlining the application process and making it more accessible online could help more families navigate the system and secure the financial support they need.
Social Security survivor benefits play a critical role in supporting children who have lost a parent. By raising awareness about these benefits, addressing barriers to access, and providing necessary information and resources, more families can benefit from the financial assistance available to them. It is essential for individuals to explore their eligibility for Social Security survivor benefits and take advantage of the support provided by the program.