Social Security child benefits - which parent should apply when one has much higher FRA benefits?

The children can actually receive benefits based on either parent's record, but the amount will be higher based on your husband's record since his PIA is higher. Each child could receive up to 50% of the parent's PIA (Primary Insurance Amount), subject to the family maximum limit. Since your husband's benefit is significantly higher, they would get more if they claim on his record. You should both file for your own retirement benefits when you're ready, and then your husband should mention the dependent children when he applies. The SSA will determine the maximum family benefit on his record.

Yes both of u need to apply for YOUR OWN benefits first... then u apply for the kids benefits. Just know theres a family maximum that limits the total amt everyone can get off one persons record. My neighbor's kids got benefits off their dad's record and it helped so much with expenses!

You've received some good advice, but let me clarify a few points about child benefits: 1. Children can qualify for benefits when a parent begins receiving Social Security retirement (or disability) benefits 2. Each child can receive up to 50% of the parent's full benefit amount 3. There is a Family Maximum Benefit (FMB) that limits the total amount dependents can receive (usually 150-180% of the worker's benefit) 4. The higher earner's record will provide higher benefits for the children 5. Children's benefits continue until age 18 (or 19 if still in high school) In your case, having your husband list the children on his application when he files at FRA in July would maximize their benefit amounts. The children will each receive separate payments. You should apply for your retirement at 62 as planned, and he'll apply at his FRA with the children listed as dependents.

My kids got benefits when I retired and it was around $800 each per month. Best college savings plan ever! But we had to take their birth certificates and our marriage certificate to the office. They don't let you do the kids part online for some reason.

After struggling to get through to an agent at Social Security for weeks about a similar situation, I finally found this service called Claimyr that got me connected to an SSA agent in less than 10 minutes. Saved me so much frustration! You might want to check out their video at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU to see how it works. Their website is claimyr.com - honestly made the whole process of sorting out my kids' benefits so much easier. They connected me directly to a knowledgeable agent who explained everything.

One important thing to note: there's a separate application process for the children's benefits. After your husband applies for his retirement benefits, you'll need to submit applications for each child. This typically requires: 1. The children's birth certificates 2. Your marriage certificate 3. Your and your husband's Social Security numbers 4. Bank information for direct deposit You'll likely need to schedule an appointment at your local SSA office for this part, as child benefit applications usually can't be completed online. I'd recommend calling to schedule this appointment around the same time your husband applies for his benefits.

My brother got benefits for his kids but then SSA said they overpaid and wanted all the money back! Make sure you report any income the kids have and keep really good records! The whole system is designed to trip people up i swear

Oh meant to say, when your husband files at FRA, make sure he specifically mentions the kids' eligibility. Sometimes the claims specialists forget to ask about eligible children, then you have to start the whole process over again. Ask me how I know lol