Our programs and services have evolved to accommodate the unique needs of families, especially the children in your care. Our website for Parents and Guardians includes information about the benefits available for children.

Here are five things you can learn more about on our Parents and Guardians page:

1. Social Security’s promise — We know how much your loved ones mean to you. Our promise of a lifetime of protections extends to them. When you work and pay Social Security taxes, your children may also qualify to receive benefits on your record.
2. It starts with your child’s Social Security Number —Our journey together begins at birth. A child needs a Social Security number if the child’s going to have a bank account or if you want to claim them on your tax returns. You can apply for your baby’s number and card right in the hospital when you complete the information for their birth certificate.
3. What happens when disability strikes — Children with disabilities are among our most vulnerable citizens. Social Security is dedicated to helping those with qualifying disabilities and their families through our Social Security disability program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
4. When a parent or guardian dies— Our benefits help ease the financial burden on your loved ones after you die by providing monthly payments to eligible widows, widowers, children, and dependent parents.
5. If you’re raising your grandchild — Your minor grandchildren may be eligible for benefits while you’re receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits, in certain situations.

Visit our Parents and Guardians website for more information about these services. You can also get all the details about benefits for children by reading our publication, Benefits for Children.