Can my daughter keep Social Security benefits after 18 with self-study GED prep & vocational training?
Hey everyone, I need some advice about my daughter's Social Security benefits. My son turned 17 last month and has been receiving dependent benefits since I started getting SSDI in 2016. He's had a rough few years - we had to relocate in 2020 after he experienced severe harassment at school that left him with serious anxiety issues. He needed extensive therapy for almost 3 years following the trauma. He's incredibly bright - reads at college level and is more knowledgeable about current events, philosophy, and music than most adults I know. However, the traditional school structure was really detrimental to his mental health recovery. After completing what would be considered 8th grade at an online academy, he stepped back from formal education to focus on healing. He's currently working toward his GED with plans to complete it by late 2025. He's also receiving mentorship in audio engineering which he's passionate about. The problem is he's turning 18 next month, and I'm worried about him losing his benefits. I received the SSA School Attendance Statement forms which list several qualifying education types: High School, Home School, GED prep, Technical, Vocational, and "Other." Would his current self-directed GED study combined with the vocational audio engineering training qualify to extend his benefits until 19? Or do we need to enroll him in something more formalized to maintain eligibility? I appreciate any guidance here - this income is really important for his support while he gets back on track.
2 comments
Nora Brooks
My neighbor's kid got approved for benefits continuation by enrolling in a program that combined GED prep with vocational training. It was technically a "transition program" for students with special needs. Maybe look into whether your county has something similar? Sometimes they're run through the school district or county services.
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Jayden Reed
•That sounds like exactly what we need! I'll research transition programs in our area - hadn't thought about approaching it from the special needs angle but that makes sense given his anxiety issues. Really appreciate the suggestion.
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