The dependants of Social Security beneficiaries may be entitled to receive benefits. The benefit entitlements depend on the relation of the dependant to the wage earner. Benefits may be available to a husband or wife is age sixty two or older or if caring for the child of a disabled wage earner, to children of the wage earner under age eighteen or over age eighteen if severely disabled and in some instances to the parents of a wage earner. Family members may be eligible for a monthly benefit of up to half of the wage earner's retirement or disability benefit.