Spain's Social Security outlines survivor benefits for children and IMV rules for young adults

The Spanish Social Security Administration provides survivor benefits to children of deceased workers, including step‑children, adoptive children, grandchildren and great‑step‑children. Payments continue until the child turns 18 or completes secondary education, whichever is later, and may also cover adults who became disabled before age 22. Applications cannot be submitted online; claimants must call 1‑800‑772‑1213 or visit a local office.

The agency also clarified that the Ingreso Mínimo Vital (IMV) can be received by young people who still live with their parents, provided they are not considered part of the parents’ family unit. Applicants aged 23‑29 must have lived independently for two years, be legal residents, and have contributed at least one year to Social Security, with exceptions for victims of gender‑based violence or separation. Those 30 and older need only prove a separate residence the previous year. The IMV tops up incomes up to €733 per month, with a threshold of €723, and adjusts proportionally to any change in earnings.