Claiming Rules
How Student Benefits Are Affected at Ages 18–19
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 24, 2026
The short answer
Student benefits can continue until age 19 with certain conditions. If a student is in full-time attendance (FTA) and has not graduated, benefits may extend. Typically, benefits terminate the month before turning 19, unless specific academic terms allow continuation.
Eligibility for Student Benefits
Individuals are eligible for student benefits if they attain age 18, are in full-time attendance (FTA) at an educational institution providing secondary level courses, and have not attained age 19. Benefits may continue beyond 19 if they meet conditions outlined in RS 00205.325.
RS 00205.001 View source ›Termination of Student Benefits
Student benefits typically end if a student is older than 18 and not full-time. They terminate the month prior to turning 19 unless they meet criteria for extended entitlement. For those deemed younger due to academic terms, benefits continue as described in RS 00205.325.
20 CFR 404.352 View source ›Full-Time Attendance Verification
To verify FTA, students must complete Form SSA-1372. The process requires school officials to certify attendance. Alternative evidence approved by the appropriate authority can also verify attendance.
RS 00205.350 View source ›School Operating Basis and Impact
Benefits timing is influenced by the school's operating basis: yearly, semester, or quarter. For yearly schedules, benefits may extend to age 19 and 2 months. Different rules apply for schools requiring semester re-enrollment.
RS 00205.325 View source ›Frequently asked
Can I get benefits as a student if I'm 18?
Yes, if you are in full-time attendance (FTA) at a secondary-level school until age 19.
Do I need to renew my school attendance verification every term?
Yes, the procedure for verifying FTA often requires term-based re-enrollment verification from your school.
When will my student benefits stop?
Benefits typically stop the month before you turn 19, though they may extend if you're in an eligible program.
What happens if my school doesn't require re-enrollment every term?
If your school operates yearly without re-enrollment, your benefits may continue up to age 19 and 2 months.
How can I prove my full-time attendance?
Use Form SSA-1372, completed by you and certified by a school official.