by Knight Ridder, Tribune News Service
Q: I am 53 years old and suddenly find that I will be caring for my 9-year-old granddaughter for the foreseeable future. I get Social Security disability benefits and want to know if my granddaughter would also be eligible for any benefits.
A: If you provide at least half of the support for your granddaughter, she may also qualify to receive benefits on your record. An eligible child can be your biological child, adopted child, stepchild or dependent grandchild. Within your family, each qualified child may receive a monthly payment up to one-half of your full disability amount. For more information, you can visit Social Security online at www.socialsecurity.gov and read the publication Disability Benefits (Publication No. 05-10029), or call the toll-free number,1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), to request a copy.
Always consult with an experienced social security disability professional when you need help getting your disability benefits.