Back pay for my kids

[Laney A.]

I've been receiving disability benefits since 1997. I didn't know my kids could receive benefits too. I just found out the other day that they do qualify. What is this even called? My oldest is 17 and my youngest is 10. Should they receive back pay? And if so, how much? Thanks! I'm confused and just want to know what I should expect.

[Onderzoek]

I've been receiving disability benefits since 1997. I didn't know my kids could receive benefits too. I just found out the other day that they do qualify. What is this even called? My oldest is 17 and my youngest is 10. Should they receive back pay? And if so, how much? Thanks! I'm confused and just want to know what I should expect.

Do you receive SSI or SSDI? If it is SSI, there are no benefits for your children. If it is SSDI, the question about your children would have been asked on your initial application in 1997. You would have said yes since the 17 year old would have been alive then. And a claim should have been taken at that time. Or a notice stating that you had six months to apply to have that filing date used. So it is doubtful that there would be any retroactive benefits (back pay).

Also, sometimes even when a claim is taken, there is not always enough in the disability family maximum computation for any benefits to be paid to children.

SSA can give you specific information that applies to your specific case. File a claim.