What Are SSDI Auxiliary Benefits?

SSDI auxiliary benefits are additional benefits paid to family members of a person who is receiving SSDI benefits. These auxiliary benefits include payments for:

• Spouse: If your spouse is 62 or older, or caring for your dependent child, they may qualify for auxiliary benefits.
• Children: Your unmarried children under the age of 18 (or 19 if still in school) can receive auxiliary benefits. Disabled children who are older than 18 may also qualify.
• Ex-Spouse: An ex-spouse may be eligible for benefits if you were married for at least 10 years and meet certain other criteria.

These benefits are based on your work history and the SSDI benefits you are receiving.

Eligibility Requirements for SSDI Auxiliary Benefits

Before applying for auxiliary benefits, it's important to understand the eligibility criteria for each family member:

Spouse:

• Your spouse must be at least 62 years old or caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child who is receiving SSDI benefits.
• The spouse must not be eligible for a higher benefit on their own Social Security record.

Children:

• The child must be your biological child, adopted child, or in some cases, a stepchild.
• The child must be under 18 years old, or up to 19 if still in high school.
• If the child is 18 or older, they may qualify if they are disabled and the disability started before age 22.

Ex-Spouse:

• Your ex-spouse may be eligible if you were married for at least 10 years.
• They must be 62 or older and have not remarried.

Steps to Apply for SSDI Auxiliary Benefits

If you are currently receiving SSDI and your family members are eligible for auxiliary benefits, here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Collect Necessary Information

Before applying, make sure you have all the relevant documentation for each family member who may be eligible for auxiliary benefits. This includes:

• Personal information: Full names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers.
• Proof of marriage or divorce: If applying for a spouse or ex-spouse.
• Proof of child’s eligibility: Birth certificates, school records (for children under 19), and medical records (if applicable for disabled children).

Step 2: Apply Online or In-Person

You can apply for SSDI auxiliary benefits either online or in-person:

• Online: The SSA allows you to apply for auxiliary benefits online through the SSA’s website. Visit www.ssa.gov and sign in to your account to begin the application process for your family members.
• In-Person: If you are unable to apply online, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. You will need to schedule an appointment and provide the necessary documentation.

Step 3: Provide Proof of Eligibility

During the application process, the SSA will require proof of each family member’s eligibility. This may include birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, and evidence of your SSDI eligibility. If your child is disabled and over 18, you may need to submit medical records showing that the disability began before age 22.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Once your application is submitted, the SSA will process the claim and determine if your family members are eligible for SSDI auxiliary benefits. The processing time can vary, but generally, it takes about 3 to 5 months for the SSA to make a decision.

• If your application is approved, your family members will begin receiving auxiliary benefits.
• If the application is denied, you can request reconsideration or appeal the decision.