Family Benefits
Eligibility for Social Security Benefits for Grandchildren
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 19, 2026
The short answer
Eligible grandchildren may receive Social Security benefits if their natural or adoptive parents are deceased or disabled when the grandparent becomes entitled to benefits, or if they are legally adopted by the grandparent's surviving spouse. The grandchild must have lived with and received at least one-half support from the grandparent before the applicable month. See GN 00306.235 for details.
Qualifying Relationship
A grandchild or stepgrandchild qualifies as a 'child' under Social Security if their natural or adoptive parents are deceased or disabled, aligning with specific events like the grandparent's entitlement to benefits or death. Alternatively, the grandchild is recognized if legally adopted by the surviving spouse of the grandparent after the grandparent's death. This adoption must occur within the U.S. (GN 00306.235, 20 CFR 404.358).
GN 00306.235 View source ›Dependency Requirements
The grandchild must have received at least one-half support from the grandparent in the U.S. throughout the year prior to the key event, such as the grandparent's entitlement to benefits or death. The requirement considers cash or in-kind support contributions (GN 00306.235).
GN 00306.235 View source ›Adoption by Surviving Spouse
A grandchild adopted by the surviving spouse of a grandparent is considered entitled from the month of the grandparent's death, provided certain conditions like household separation from the natural or adoptive parent and support contributions are met (GN 00306.235).
GN 00306.235 View source ›Legal Definitions
Per 20 CFR 404.358, eligibility extends to the natural, adopted, or stepchild of a person recognized as the grandparent's child. Eligibility ties to the time the grandparent becomes entitled to benefits, or during their disability period that leads to benefit entitlement.
20 CFR 404.358 View source ›Frequently asked
How does a grandchild qualify for Social Security benefits?
A grandchild qualifies if their natural or adoptive parents are deceased or disabled when the grandparent becomes entitled to benefits, or if legally adopted by the grandparent's surviving spouse.
What support is required for a grandchild to be eligible?
The grandchild must have lived with and received at least half support from the grandparent for the year before the grandparent’s entitlement or death.
Can a legally adopted grandchild get benefits after a grandparent's death?
Yes, if adopted by the grandparent's surviving spouse within the U.S. and other support criteria are met.
Is a great-grandchild eligible for benefits?
No, only grandchildren or stepgrandchildren as defined by the legal status of their parents are eligible.
What if a grandchild’s parents become disabled later?
Benefits eligibility does not apply if parents become disabled after the grandparent’s benefits entitlement unless linked to the grandparent's death.