Yes. Family members who are dependents of a worker who is eligible for Social Security benefits might also be able to receive benefits.
Reduced widow or widower benefits can be received as early as age 60. If a surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers, and other survivors, visit
www.socialsecurity.gov/ww&os2.htm.
A widow or widower can receive benefits at any age if she or he takes care of a child who is receiving Social Security benefits and is younger than age 16 or disabled.
Unmarried children who are younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full time) also can receive benefits. Children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. Under certain circumstances, benefits also can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren, stepgrandchildren, or adopted children.
In addition, dependent parents can receive benefits if they are age 62 or older. (For your parents to qualify as dependents, you would have had to provide at least one-half of their support.)
For more information see the Social Security Administration Web site at
www.ssa.gov/pubs/10024.html#yourfamily.
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