Regardless of whether you start your retirement checks before your full retirement age, each child could get a monthly check equal to 50 percent of your full retirement benefits. There is a limit regarding how much Social Security will pay in family benefits. The limit is set at between 150 to 180 percent of you or your spouse’s retirement benefits at full retirement age. Typically, the total is about 170 percent of the worker’s retirement benefit at full retirement age. Combined family benefits can amount to several thousand dollars. They are definitely worth factoring into your retirement and financial planning, if you meet the necessary eligibility criteria.