My mother died 5 months ago and I took over my little sister who’s 16 and she was already receiving Survivor benefits From my dad who died 13 years ago . I just recently lost my grandma 3 weeks ago who was my biggest help and now I have to take care of two 16 years old by myself I have my cousin with me . I want to apply for food stamps to gives us a extra help until I get everything together since this is all new to me and happens so soon. I only work part time as a afterschool teacher . If I apply for food stamp would that affect anything on my sister who receive Survivor benefits ?

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

No, if you qualify for food stamps that would have no effect on your sister's Social Security survivor benefits. Also, it sounds like your sister would likely qualify for survivor benefits on the higher of your mother's or father's records, so if you haven't already done so you may want to check with Social Security to make sure she's receiving the highest possible benefit rate.

Best, Jerry