My client has 3 children. Her oldest will turn 18 in less than 3 yrs so we're trying to figure out how much the 2 younger children will get when that time comes. Getting anything in writing from SSA is challenging. Can you help us? I'm trying to do a home loan for this widow and her family.

Hi. The benefit rate that the 2 younger children will be paid depends on a) the deceased worker's primary insurance amount (PIA), and b) whether or not a widow is collecting benefits on the same account, and if so whether she's drawing regular widow's benefits or child in care survivor benefits (i.e. mother's benefits), and c) the family maximum benefit rate (FMB) amount or combined FMB amount. Surviving children can each be paid up to a maximum of 75% of the deceased worker's PIA, but the total amount that can be paid to family members from the worker's account can't exceed the FMB limit on that account.

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Best, Jerry