Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz recently shared a personal story during his Democratic National Convention speech, highlighting the crucial role Social Security survivor benefits played in his family’s life after his father’s untimely death. These benefits provided stability and dignity to his mother and younger brother, allowing them to navigate a difficult financial situation caused by medical debt. This anecdote sheds light on the significant impact of Social Security on families facing loss and hardship.
According to recent data from the Social Security Administration, about 3.7 million children currently receive Social Security survivor benefits. These benefits are available to unmarried children under 18, full-time students between 18 and 19 in grades 12 or below, and disabled individuals over 18 with an onset of disability before turning 22. In situations where a working parent passes away, 98 out of 100 children in the U.S. are eligible for survivor benefits. The monthly benefit amount is determined based on the deceased parent’s earnings, with an average benefit of $1,103 as of July. However, despite the existence of these benefits, many families are unaware of their eligibility.
It is estimated that as many as half of orphaned children in the U.S. do not receive the Social Security benefits they are entitled to, due to lack of awareness or information. Organizations like Evermore are working to bridge this gap and ensure that families in need are aware of and able to access these vital resources. To address this issue, the Social Security Administration is implementing targeted strategies to reach families who may be eligible for survivor benefits but are not currently receiving them.
Efforts to increase awareness of Social Security survivor benefits include sending information letters to households with potential applicants, launching dedicated webpages, and collaborating with states and communities to raise awareness about these benefits. In states like Utah, measures such as adding a check box to death reporting forms have been implemented to identify cases where minor children are involved. These initiatives aim to ensure that families facing loss are informed about the support available to them through the Social Security program.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist in accessing survivor benefits for children. Issues such as changes in guardianship, immigration status, missed deadlines, and administrative errors can prevent eligible individuals from receiving the benefits they are entitled to. It is crucial for families to have easy access to information and resources related to Social Security benefits, including online application options that streamline the process and reduce barriers to access.
Financial advisor Jim Blair emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the Social Security Administration if there is any suspicion of eligibility for survivor benefits. Families navigating loss and hardship should not hesitate to inquire about available resources and support. By being proactive in seeking assistance, families can ensure that they access the benefits they need to maintain financial stability during challenging times.
The story shared by Gov. Tim Walz underscores the significant role of Social Security survivor benefits in providing critical support to families facing loss and adversity. By increasing awareness, improving accessibility, and empowering families to seek support, we can ensure that children who have lost a parent receive the financial assistance they need to thrive. It is essential to continue working towards eliminating barriers to accessing survivor benefits and advocating for the well-being of bereaved families across the country.