Becoming an adult

Adulthood brings changes.

At a glance

If you get Social Security benefits, we will send you a letter when you turn 18. The letter will explain steps you need to take to make sure your benefits are not interrupted.

Learn more

Managing your own money

If you get benefits that your parents manage for you, you may be able to start getting your monthly payments directly. You will need to show us that you are able to manage your own money.

If you have questions about this process, call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can also make an appointment to talk with us.

Family or Survivor benefits

Benefits from your parent's Social Security record automatically stop after you turn 18. Full-time students in high school may be able to continue benefits up to their 19th birthday.

To tell us you are a full-time student, complete the Advance Notice of Termination of Child’s Benefits (Form SSA-1372). Return the form to your local Social Security office by drop box, mail, or fax.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

If you get SSI, we will check to see if you still qualify for monthly payments.

Learn more about the review process

Students with jobs

If you are a student under age 22, some of the money you earn from working does not count when deciding if you can get SSI.

Find out more about SSI work incentives

Plan ahead

You will likely pay Social Security and Medicare taxes. As early as age 62, you can
apply to get Retirement benefits from Social Security.

Your benefit amount is based on your lifetime earnings and how old you are when you retire.

Create an account to track your earnings history, view your eligibility for benefits, and use our personalized benefits calculator.

By Phase

By Type