Feb
09
2013
By Guest (not verified)
If there is money in the survivor savings account after the survivor turns 18, does that money have to be sent back to social security?
Return of surplus funds for child survivor beneficiary
First, let me say that, with the exception of fraud or similar misuse, I've never heard of anyone returning
survivor or similar child benefits to the SSA when the child reaches age 18.
Second, the SSA states the following regarding use of funds :
http://www.ssa.gov/payee/faqrep.htm#a0=9
Benefits should be used for current needs such as food, clothing, shelter, utilities, dental and medical care and personal comfort items, or reasonably foreseeable needs. If not needed for these purposes, the benefits must be conserved or invested on behalf of the beneficiary. Where the beneficiary has unmet current maintenance needs, saving benefits serves little purpose and would not be in the beneficiary's best interests.
This indicates saving money, even for use beyond age 18, is encouraged.
Still, as the representative payee must keep rather detailed records regarding spending, if you have questions it would be best to contact the SSA directly regarding this.