Did you know that your family members could also be entitled to Social Security benefits on your record? Without question, a disability affects more than just one person, as it impacts the entire family. The Social Security Administration has created what is known as family benefits to address this issue.
According to the Social Security Administration’s website, when you begin receiving your disability benefits in New York or New Jersey, some of your family members may also qualify. Eligible family members include your spouse, your divorced spouse, your children and your disabled child.
How Family Benefits Are Calculated When calculating your family’s benefits, you need to keep in mind that there is a limit as to how much Social Security will pay. Social Security states that “each family member may be eligible for a monthly benefit of up to 50 percent of your disability rate.” However, the total amount paid out on your record depends not only on your benefit amount, but also the number of family members who qualify. This amount varies, but for the most part, it is approximately 50 to 80 percent of your disability benefit.
In the situation where the total benefits payable on your record is higher than the family limit, the family benefits will be reduced, but your benefit will not be impacted.
How We Can Help Applying for Social Security benefits can be a daunting task and often, claims are denied. A New York Social Security Disability lawyer from our office will be able to assist you with the process and can help you with a disability claim denial. For more information, contact us today at (718) 979-4300 or (800) 976-4904. Our New York and New Jersey disability lawyers represent disabled workers throughout New York and New Jersey.