What Determines a Disabled Adult Child and What Social Security Benefits Can They Receive?

Disabled Adult Child (DAC) is an adult child who has a disability that began before they became 22 years old.

 What is the social security benefit for a Disabled Adult Child when a parent retires?

The benefit is based on 50% of parent’s retirement benefit.

Example: If the parent’s retirement benefit is $1500, the disabled adult child would be eligible for $750.

 If the child is currently receiving income at the current SSI rate of $710 and he/she is eligible for $750, SSI goes away and the child receives the higher amount.

If the child’s eligibility is less than the current SSI rate of $710, a calculation of SSI and retirement benefits would take place.

For example: Parent’s retirement benefit is $1400, the disabled adult child is eligible for $700. The child would receive $30 in SSI benefits and the remaining $680 would be paid from the retirement benefits.

 What social security benefits does a Disabled Adult Child receive when a parent dies?

The benefit is based on 75% of parent’s retirement benefit.

Example: If the parent’s retirement benefit was $1500, the disabled adult child would be eligible for $1125.

What happens when the remaining parent of Disabled Adult Child retires or dies?

 If the surviving parent had a higher earnings record, they should contact Social Security Administration to apply to switch over for the higher benefits.

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