I will be using your software to review my situation in full. However, I would like an answer to this question ahead
of time. I am 66 and eligible to collect but not yet collecting social security. My "full" retirement benefit is $2,477
according to my ss statements. I plan to collect in January 2018 when I will be 67. I have a disabled adult child (disabled from birth) who collects SSI of $534 per month. When is my son eligible to collect on my record? Is it when I start collecting next January? or at anytime? Is he eligible to receive half of my full benefit of $2,477 or $1,238 per month? or does what he collects based on where he lives? He lives at home but will be moving to a group home in 2 years. Appreciate your response. and Thanks
FM

Hi FM,

Your son can't collect disabled adult child's benefits on your record until you start drawing your benefits. And, yes, he would be eligible for up to 50% of your full retirement age rate, although the actual amount can sometimes be less if the maximum family rate is involved. The family maximum won't limit his benefit rate, however, unless someone else (e.g. spouse) can receive benefits on your account.

Social Security is a federal program, and benefit rates do not vary based on the location where a person lives. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs based program, and SSI benefits are offset essentially dollar for dollar if the eligible individual receives Social Security benefits. Therefore, your son's SSI payments will almost certainly end when he becomes entitled to the higher disabled adult child's benefits on your record.

Best, Jerry