Under what condition is a totally dependent minor grandchild entitled to the same special death benefit as a totally dependent minor child?

• A. When the grandchild reaches age 18.
• B. When the employer has actual knowledge or notice that the deceased employee left a surviving dependent.
• C. Only if the grandchild is enrolled in school.
• D. Never; grandchildren are excluded.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that the special death benefit is paid to dependents who were totally dependent on the employee, but eligibility for a grandchild hinges on the employer’s awareness. A totally dependent minor grandchild can receive the same benefit as a similarly dependent minor child only when the employer actually knows or has notice that the deceased employee left a surviving dependent. If the employer is aware of the dependent, the grandchild qualifies and receives the benefit on the same basis as a child would. The trigger isn’t age alone or school enrollment, and grandchildren aren’t automatically excluded—the decisive factor is the employer’s knowledge that a surviving dependent exists.