When you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), your eligibility may extend beyond your own monthly payment. In many cases, your dependent family members may also qualify for auxiliary benefits, helping your household stay financially stable during a difficult time.

At The Nunley Law Group, we help clients not only secure their own SSDI benefits—but also make sure their families receive the full support they’re entitled to under the law.

Who Is Eligible for Dependent (Auxiliary) Benefits?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) may pay monthly benefits to your qualifying family members, which can be up to 50% of your monthly SSDI amount (subject to a family maximum limit). Eligible dependents include:

1. Your Minor Children

• Must be under age 18, or under 19 if still in high school full-time

• Adopted children, stepchildren, and sometimes grandchildren may also qualify

2. Adult Children with Disabilities

• Must have a disability that began before age 22

• Can receive benefits for as long as the disability persists

3. Your Spouse

• Can qualify if:Age 62 or older

• Or caring for your child who is under age 16 or disabled

4. Ex-Spouses

• May qualify if:You were married at least 10 years

• The ex-spouse is unmarried and age 62 or older

• Their benefit amount based on their own record is less than they would receive through yours

How Much Can Your Family Receive?

Each eligible dependent can receive up to 50% of your full SSDI monthly benefit, but there is a family maximum limit (typically 150% to 180% of your benefit total). If the total amount payable to your family exceeds this limit, SSA will reduce the individual payments proportionally—but your own SSDI benefit will not be reduced.

How to Apply for Dependent Benefits

When you apply for SSDI, you can include your dependents on your application. If not, you can apply for their benefits separately by:

• Visiting your local SSA office

• Calling 1-800-772-1213

• Applying online (for certain dependent types)

You’ll need to provide documentation, including:

• Social Security numbers

• Birth certificates

• Proof of relationship (marriage certificates, adoption paperwork, etc.)

• School enrollment forms (for children 18–19 still in school)

At The Nunley Law Group, we help clients gather the right paperwork and complete the process correctly to avoid delays or denials.

How These Benefits Help Your Family

Dependent benefits can provide much-needed financial support while you're unable to work, helping your loved ones cover essentials such as:

• Housing and utilities

• Groceries and basic needs

• School expenses for children

• Medical care and childcare costs

These benefits can make a major difference in your family’s stability and quality of life during your time of disability.

Let Us Help You Protect What Matters Most

Your family depends on you—and Social Security dependent benefits are one way to make sure they’re taken care of while you focus on your health. At The Nunley Law Group, we help clients understand what they’re entitled to and take action to secure every available benefit.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about SSDI dependent benefits and how we can help your family receive the support they deserve.