A more thorough explanation:

Dependents benefits are a type of social security payment that can be received by people who rely on the income of the primary recipient. These benefits are usually given to surviving family members, but in some cases, dependents can receive benefits while the recipient is still alive.

For example, if a person is receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), their spouse, child, or parent may be eligible for dependents benefits. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to qualify for these benefits.

For instance, if a spouse wants to receive dependents benefits, they must have been married to the recipient for at least one year, be the natural parent of a child, or have been entitled to social security in the month before they got married. Additionally, the dependent-spouse must apply, be older than 62 or care for a child who is entitled to child’s benefits on the recipient’s earnings record, and not be entitled to more social security than the recipient.

Similarly, if a child wants to receive their parent-recipient’s benefits, the parent must have died, the child must be at least 62 years old, have not married since the recipient died, and be receiving at least one-half of their support at the time the parent died. The child must also apply and not be entitled to old-age benefits in an amount that exceeds that recipient’s benefits.

Overall, dependents benefits are a way for family members to receive financial support when they rely on the income of the primary recipient. To apply for these benefits, individuals can visit the Social Security Administration website.