Politics

HHS reports 35 states have stopped intercepting Social Security benefits for orphans

The Hill · August 12, 2026Original source ↗

HHS reports 35 states have stopped intercepting Social Security benefits for orphans

What happened

Officials from the Department of Health and Human Services announced that 35 states have halted the practice of intercepting federal Social Security survivor benefits intended for orphans in foster care. This practice involved states taking benefits from children after the death of their parents, who had contributed to the program.

Why it matters

This change may provide financial support to vulnerable children in foster care who qualify for these benefits.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you are a foster parent or guardian?

This change may provide additional financial support for children in your care who qualify for Social Security survivor benefits. It could help improve their quality of life and access to necessary resources.

Want this written about you?

The breakdown above is the shared version, for kinds of people. In the app, Ripple uses your job, your city, and your family, then writes that part about you.

Get your Ripple