Seattle Social Security Children’s Benefits Lawyer
At Gustad Law Group, we know how deeply important it is for parents and guardians to understand every benefit available when a parent becomes disabled or passes away. For children, that can mean vital financial support through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Our Seattle Social Security children’s benefits lawyer is here to help families across Washington and nationwide understand how children’s benefits work, who qualifies, and how we can assist you in applying or appealing for benefits, ensuring your child’s future has a measure of security during difficult times.
We bring decades of experience and compassionate advocacy to every case. When you work with us, you benefit from the knowledge of our long-term staff and the personal attention of our principal attorney, John‑Paul Gustad, who has represented thousands of people before the SSA. We guide you step-by-step, gathering documentation, completing applications, communicating with SSA, and guarding against common mistakes. We believe every child and family deserves a fair chance.
How Children Qualify for Social Security Benefits
Children may qualify for Social Security benefits based on a parent’s work record or disability, or as a survivor after a parent’s death. According to the SSA, a dependent child may receive benefits if their parent is retired, disabled, or deceased and has earned enough work credits under Social Security. Eligible children include biological children, stepchildren, adopted children, and, in certain circumstances, dependent grandchildren.
To receive benefits, the child generally must be unmarried and meet one of the following criteria:
- Under age 18
- Between the ages of 18 and 19, if they are a full-time student in an elementary or secondary school
- Age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.
For children whose parent receives disability benefits (SSDI), dependent benefits may begin once the parent’s benefits start. For children whose parent has died, survivor (dependent) benefits may apply based on the parent’s earnings record.
For children with their own disabilities and limited income or resources, SSA’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program may offer benefits, particularly for children who never worked but qualify based on disability and financial need.
What Benefits Children May Receive
When a child qualifies under a living parent’s SSDI or retirement record, the benefit amount is typically a percentage of the parent’s benefit. Generally, a dependent child may receive up to about 50% of the parent’s monthly Social Security benefit, subject to a “family maximum,” which is a cap on total payments to all family members.
If the child qualifies based on a deceased parent (survivor benefits), they may receive up to around 75% of what the parent was entitled to receive.
If the child is disabled (whether already before age 22 or becoming disabled later), there may be additional protections and continuation of benefits into adulthood under certain conditions.
Why Benefits for Children Are Important in Seattle and Washington State
Families across Washington face real economic pressures when a parent becomes disabled or dies. For many children, Social Security benefits represent crucial support for housing, food, education, medical care, and stability. Yet applying for these benefits can be confusing and full of pitfalls; missing paperwork, misunderstanding SSA rules, or failing to meet specific requirements often lead to denial or delay.
That’s where working with Gustad Law Group can make a difference. We know the SSA’s rules and standards inside and out. We know what evidence and documentation SSA needs. We know what forms to fill out, what information must be provided, and when. We also know how difficult it is for families to deal with grief or disability and how important it is to act quickly and carefully so children don’t miss out on benefits that could help them for years.
How Gustad Law Group Supports Children & Families with Social Security Benefit Claims in Seattle
When you trust us with your case, we:
- Review your family’s circumstances, including parental work history, the child’s age, school status, and whether disability or death is involved, to determine eligibility.
- Help gather all necessary documentation (birth certificates, Social Security numbers, school enrollment forms, medical records, death certificates, etc.) that the SSA requires.
- Complete and submit applications carefully and accurately.
- Represent you if there is a denial in a request for reconsideration or administrative hearing to fight for the benefits your child deserves.
- Provide ongoing support and communication, explaining each step clearly and compassionately so you always know where your case stands.
We treat every child and every family with the respect, urgency, and care that their situation deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Benefits for Children From Social Security
Who qualifies as a “child” for Social Security benefits?
A child who is unmarried and either under age 18, age 18–19 and a full-time student in elementary or high school, or age 18 or older if they have a disability that began before age 22 may qualify. Biological, adopted, and step‑children may qualify, and in certain situations, dependent grandchildren or step‑grandchildren may also be eligible.
Can a child receive benefits if the parent is disabled but still alive?
Yes. If the parent receives SSDI (or retirement benefits), a dependent child may receive up to 50% of the parent’s benefit (subject to SSA’s family maximum rules).
What happens if the qualifying parent dies?
If the deceased parent had sufficient work credits and paid into Social Security, eligible children may receive survivor benefits, often up to 75% of the parent’s benefit, depending on circumstances.
Can a disabled child get benefits on their own?
Yes. If a child has a qualifying physical or mental disability and meets SSA’s definition for disability (for children), they may qualify for benefits, even if no parent is receiving benefits, typically through SSI or dependent‑child disability benefits.
How do I apply for children’s benefits?
You can apply by contacting the SSA (phone or local office), filling out necessary forms, and submitting required documentation such as birth certificates, Social Security numbers, proof of school enrollment (if applicable), and evidence of disability (if applicable). Our team can help you gather and organize everything to ensure your application is complete and meets SSA requirements.
Contact Gustad Law Group for Help With Your Children’s SSA Benefits in Seattle
If you believe your child may qualify for Social Security children’s benefits, whether because of a parent’s disability, retirement, or death, or because of your child’s own disability, legal advice and representation can be key to a successful claim. Gustad Law Group offers a free consultation to explore your options, and you don’t owe us anything if we aren’t successful on your behalf. Contact our Seattle office today to get started, and let us help protect your child’s future with the benefits they deserve.