I am a 66 year old grandfather in the process of adopting my grandson, who has lived with me and my wife for his entire life, he is 7 years old. My wife will not be the adoptive mother, my daughter will retain her rights as his mother. Will I be able to receive benefits for him, and does it matter what my monthly income is?

Hi,

Yes, if you legally adopt your grandson it would establish a parent-child relationship that should permit him to qualify for Social Security child's benefits on your record. Of course, you must be drawing your Social Security benefits in order for him to receive benefits as your child. Your income level won't matter since you are already age 66.

Best, Jerry