in case of an emergency why can social security check only be cashed in by a minor ?

Social Security is an insurance program. Most people who work pay into it. Benefits are paid out to those who are eligible to receive them - just like any insurance program. As it is I think plenty of people are entitled to benefits. You have insured yourself for disability and retirement. And if you died when you had minor children they were covered for benefits as well as your spouse.

So if you happen to die before collecting disability or retirement and there is no one to collect a survivor's benefit - EVER - so be it. The monies you paid into the program will be used to pay benefits to others who are eligible - same as any other insurance. Hopefully I'll never have to use my auto insurance for anything more important than paying a locksmith to open my car door for me - and I've been paying auto insurance for over 50 years.

But since you have had children, isn't it possible your spouse will someday be entitled to a widow's benefit?

Otherwise I don't understand your question. If you get benefits then have them directly deposited into your bank account so that, in case of an emergency, the money is available to you....Show more

Nope. Children are at a working age and "adults" It sucks i know. My Father and Mother both died in the 2 year span. They were both in their late 40's. And I just turned 18. It sucked because we were left with bills and a house payment. My experience though, they had life insurance which paid off the bills and house. My advice.....get life insurance and point someone who is financially well off and age appropriate to handle money and leave a Will stating how you want the money to be handled. Trust me, for late 20's they will see that kind of money and forget money doesn't grown on trees....Show more

What do you mean "cashed in"? Are you asking about survivors benefits? Only minor children or a spouse are entitled to survivors benefits. And adult child should be working and supporting him/herself. Survivors benefits are intended to financially aide those who would have been dependent on you....Show more

What do you mean "cashed in" ?
Once you die you SS is stopped.
If you die the second day after you start receiving your SS you do not get the rest in a lump sum to your estate.

If you are still legally married then your spouse can elect to receive your SS instead of hers....Show more

If you're dead, the payment can't be cashed by anyone.

And it's hardly an emergency!...Show more