Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz recently highlighted the importance of Social Security survivor benefits in his family’s life during his speech at the Democratic National Convention. His personal experience shed light on the pivotal role these benefits play in supporting families who have lost a parent. Despite the significant impact these benefits can have, many families across the nation are not aware of their eligibility for this financial support.
Unfortunately, data suggests that as many as half of orphaned children in the United States are not receiving the Social Security benefits for which they qualify. Joyal Mulheron, founder of Evermore, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting bereaved individuals, emphasized that this lack of awareness means that many children who could be lifted out of poverty are not accessing this critical benefit.
The Social Security Administration has recognized the need to reach these families and has taken steps to increase awareness of survivor benefits. Initiatives have included sending information letters to households with potential applicants, developing a designated web page on survivor benefits, and collaborating with states and communities to raise awareness about these benefits. For example, in Utah, a check box has been added to death reporting forms to identify when the deceased has a minor child, streamlining the process for families.
Children can qualify for Social Security survivor benefits if they are unmarried and under the age of 18, between 18 and 19 and full-time students in grades 12 or below, or age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22. These benefits are based on the earnings of a deceased parent and can provide crucial financial support to families during a challenging time.
Despite the availability of these benefits, there are various challenges that families may face in accessing them. Immigrations issues, missed deadlines, administrative errors, and changes in guardianship can all pose barriers to obtaining these benefits. Additionally, families may not be aware of the application process or the documentation required to apply for children’s benefits.
It is essential for families to be proactive in exploring their eligibility for Social Security survivor benefits. Jim Blair, a former Social Security administrator, emphasized the importance of reaching out to the Social Security Administration to inquire about potential benefits. By calling 1-800-772-1213, families can seek guidance on the application process and the documentation needed to access these vital benefits.
Social Security survivor benefits serve as a crucial lifeline for families who have experienced the loss of a parent. Despite the impact these benefits can have on children’s well-being and financial stability, many families are unaware of their eligibility for this support. By increasing awareness, simplifying the application process, and providing outreach to underserved communities, more children can access the financial assistance they need during difficult times. It is imperative that families take advantage of these benefits to ensure the well-being of their children and alleviate financial strain during challenging circumstances.