Eligibility of Family Members

Under Maine’s SSDI rules, certain family members can receive benefits if they are:

• Spouses aged 62 or older or caring for a child under 16.
• Children under 18 (or up to 19 if in full-time education).
• Disabled adult children who became disabled before age 22.

Amount of Benefits for Dependents

Family members receive benefits as a percentage of the worker’s benefit, typically:

• Spouses can get up to 50% of the disabled worker’s SSDI amount.
• Children eligible for about 50% combined, shared among them.
• Total benefits to family members cannot exceed 150-180% of the worker’s benefit.

Impact on Household Income

These benefits can:

• Provide crucial financial support for daily living expenses.
• Help cover medical and educational costs for dependents.
• Relieve stress caused by loss of income due to disability.

Limitations and Coordination

It is important to know that:

• Benefits are capped to avoid excessive payments for the family.
• Family members must meet eligibility criteria separately.
• Other income sources might affect the amount of SSDI benefits.

Application Process for Dependents

Family members needing benefits must:

• Apply through the Social Security Administration with proper documentation.
• Provide proof of relationship to the disabled worker.
• Submit verification of age, schooling, or disability where applicable.