Tampa social security lawyer A primer
In order to be eligible for social security benefits, your child must depend on you financially. A child is automatically considered financially dependent on you, regardless of where he or she resides, in the following cases: • The child is your legitimate, natural child • He or she is your adopted child • He or she is your natural but illegitimate child for whom a judge has issued a determination of support, or for whom you make regular financial contributions. If a court has not officially made a determination of support for a recognized natural child that does not live with you, you can show that child's financial dependency upon you by providing: • Evidence that the child is eligible as your dependent under other programs (state and federal) • Old W2s and other tax forms showing that you claimed your child as a dependent • Records that you made periodic payments for the child • Additional related proofs In the case of a stepchild, however, the child is considered financially dependent on you (and therefore eligible for benefits) only if he or she lives with you in a parent child relationship. As a guideline, your husband or wife's legitimate child, adopted child, or illegitimate child will be considered your step child. This step child will remain eligible for benefits after the death of or divorce from their natural parent (your spouse), as long as the child continues to live with you in a regular parent and child relationship.