When you become injured or are diagnosed with a medical condition that is expected to last for at least one year or end in death, you may be eligible for disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance helps people with medical expenses and living expenses while they are unable to work because of their condition. Some people may be surprised to find out, however, that SSDI benefits may cover your family as well. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, certain family members may be eligible for benefits.
If your spouse is 62-years of age or older, or is caring for your child that is under the age of 16, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits. When the child turns 16-years-old, the spouse will stop receiving benefits, but the child will continue to receive benefits in some instances. If you are divorced, your ex-spouse may be eligible for benefits if he or she is unmarried, was married to you for at least 10 years and is at least 62-years-old.
Any children you have that are under the age of 18-years-old may be able to receive SSDI benefits under your plan as well. Traditionally, these benefits end once the child reaches 18 years. However, children who are full-time students or who have a disability may continue receiving benefits after that age. If the child became disabled before the age of 22 years, he or she may still qualify for benefits under an adult program.
This information is intended to educate and should not be used as legal advice.
