Author Topic: Social security survivor benefits record keeping question  (Read 2601 times)

Setters-r-Better

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Social security survivor benefits record keeping question
« on: October 19, 2014, 04:09:25 PM »
Has anyone here dealt with this?  My children are receiving this,  but it seems really unclear what documentation I need to keep.  Seems different than receiving money for disability,  for example.  the SSA ever look at it?  They said the money could go into a general household account and be used for pretty much anything.  I'm worried that I'm somehow going to mess this up and cause problems.

Catbert

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Re: Social security survivor benefits record keeping question
« Reply #1 on: October 19, 2014, 05:00:15 PM »
Don't sweat it.  They are entitled to it because a parent died.  As long as they live with you and you support them use the money for regular household living expenses.  Theoretically I suppose if a teenager went to live with another relative full time that relative might demand that you give the money to them.  Social Security is not going to check up on you to see what you're spending the money on.

giggles

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Re: Social security survivor benefits record keeping question
« Reply #2 on: October 19, 2014, 05:51:22 PM »
Quote
Social Security is not going to check up on you to see what you're spending the money on.

NOT TRUE!

Once a year you are required to fill out an accounting form.  It is simple, you must attest the children live with you, you had no felonies, and if you saved any money.  SSA will send you the form and you can also fill it out online.  If you don't complete the form, your child's benefits will be suspended.

Example of form: http://www.ssa.gov/payee/NewGuide/ssa-6234exhibitB.pdf
« Last Edit: October 19, 2014, 05:54:20 PM by giggles »

Setters-r-Better

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Re: Social security survivor benefits record keeping question
« Reply #3 on: October 19, 2014, 06:02:49 PM »
Yes, I did the form. It just seemed so simple,  wondered if I should make a spreadsheet or print bank statements or anything like that.  I thought maybe it's like the IRS where they might check sometimes?  Seems like I am overly worried.