An adult who became disabled before the age of 22 may be eligible for “child’s” benefits if a parent is deceased or starts receiving retirement or disability benefits.  This is considered a "child's" benefit because it is paid on the parent's Social Security earnings record.

The "adult child"—including an adopted child, or, in some cases, a step-child, grandchild, or step-grandchild—must be unmarried, age 18 or older, and have a disability that started before age 22.

Social Security Disability Topics

The Social Security Disability Process

Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

How Social Security Determines if You Are Disabled

Improving Your Chances of Winning

Do I really need to get an attorney?

Your Hearing Before An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Appealing a Denial of Benefits