Jul
23
2011
By Guest (not verified)
My husband and I are legal guardians of a disabled son. My husband took early retirement at age 62, so he doesn't get the max. My son began getting benefits on his record when he retired, and I found out I could also since my son requires constant care. I work part time while my son is at a day program, but how does the money I make affect the benefit I receive as a caretaker? Can I rent out a room in my house without affecting my benefits?
Income and effect on benefits for disabled child
This is not an easy subject. I recommend contacting the SSA or another adviser as I can only discuss generally.
It sounds as if your family is NOT receiving SSI. If you receive SSI there are household income limitations and income from work and rent may limit your SSI benefits.
Assuming you're receiving "standard" Social Security benefits based on retirement benefits (and case for disabled child) I have not seen a requirement to report income from renting.
However, since you're receiving a "caretaker benefit", I suspect you may have to report the income you earn from work. This may have to apply against a "earnings limit".
http://ssa.gov/pubs/10069.html
http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/156
http://www.ssa.gov/kids/parent6.htm
http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dqualify10.htm
http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dacpage.shtml