When you qualify for Social Security benefits, your family members may also be able to receive payments based on your record. However, there is a limit to how much your family can collect each month. Understanding these limits can help you plan your finances and avoid any surprises.
How much can your family receive from your Social Security benefits
The total amount your family can receive is typically between 150 to 180 percent of your full retirement benefit. This is called the family maximum.
Here is how it works:
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your full benefit amount.
- Your eligible family members—such as a spouse, children, or dependent parents—can receive a portion of this amount.
- The total combined amount they receive cannot exceed the family maximum limit.
If the total amount exceeds the limit, the SSA will reduce each family member’s benefit proportionally. However, your benefit amount remains the same and is not affected.
Who qualifies for Social Security benefits on your record
Several family members may qualify for benefits based on your work history, including:
- Your spouse – If they are 62 or older or caring for your child who is under 16 or disabled.
- Your children – If they are under 18, still in high school and under 19, or disabled before 22.
- Your former spouse – If they were married to you for at least 10 years, are unmarried, and 62 or older.
- Your dependent parents – If they are 62 or older and relied on you for support.
Each family member’s benefit is usually a percentage of your full retirement benefit. However, the total they receive cannot exceed the family maximum limit.
Do benefits for a divorced spouse count toward the family maximum
No. If you have a former spouse who qualifies for benefits on your record, their payments do not affect how much your current family members receive. They can still get benefits without reducing what your spouse, children, or dependent parents collect.
What happens if the total benefits exceed the family maximum
If your family members’ total benefits go over the 150 to 180 percent limit, the SSA will reduce each person’s payment proportionally. Here is what that looks like:
- Your full retirement or disability benefit stays the same.
- Your family members receive adjusted benefits so that the total amount stays within the allowed limit.
For example:
- If your full benefit is $2,000 per month, your family maximum could be between $3,000 and $3,600.
- If your spouse and two children each qualify for $800 per month, their total would be $2,400. Since this is within the limit, no changes would be made.
- But if their total benefits added up to $4,000, the SSA would reduce their payments proportionally so that they do not exceed the family maximum.
Can your family receive benefits if you are still working
Yes, but the family maximum limit still applies. If you are working and receiving Social Security benefits at the same time, your family members can still qualify for payments based on your record. However, if you have not reached full retirement age, the SSA may reduce your benefit if your earnings exceed the limit.
