Veterans lawyer and exploring the topic
Q: But, will my children receive social security benefits even if they do not live with me? If your children do not live with you, their ability to obtain benefits will depend on the specific relationship you share with them. For a child to be able to obtain benefits under your social security account, he or she must be financially dependent upon you. A child is automatically considered financially dependent on you, regardless of where he or she resides, in the following cases: • The child is your legitimate, natural child • The child is your legally adopted child • He or she is your natural but illegitimate child for whom a judge has issued a determination of support, or for whom you make regular financial contributions. If a court has not officially made a determination of support for a recognized natural child that does not live with you, you can show that child's financial dependency upon you by providing: • Evidence that the child is eligible as your dependent under other programs (state and federal) • Old W2s and other tax forms showing that you claimed your child as a dependent • Records that you made periodic payments for the child • Other proofs Financial dependability (and eligibility for social security benefits) of a stepchild, on the other hand, will only determined when that child lives with you and shares with you a parent and child relationship. As a guideline, your husband or wife's legitimate child, adopted child, or illegitimate child will be considered your step child.