How do you forward checks?

How do I find the history of where and by whom my social security checks where deposited from 1998-2002?

• I have a question related to social security checks. When I was 14 (1998) my father passed away and my mother received social security checks for each of me and my two siblings. I believe the checks were $1200 a piece. I JUST FOUND THIS OUT A WEEK AGO. My youngest sister who was 10 at the time recalled signing these checks for my mother when she wanted to cash them. The 3 of us children never understood or even knew about these checks. Needless to say the money is gone and no one knows where it was used, only my mother, but she keeps the answer hidden and wont talk about it. IS THERE A WAY TO CHECK THE HISTORY OF WHERE THESE CHECK WENT? WHO THEY WERE MADE OUT TO? WHERE THEY WERE DEPOSITED? ETC? Someone told me to call 'the social security office' to get the history . . . . but where would I call? Who would I need to talk to? ANY answers or insight anyone may have would be GREATLY appreciated! Thank You in advance.

• Answer:

  The checks were survivors benefits based on the amount your father paid into social security prior to his death. The benefit is given to the children and caretaker since your father will never collect his own at retirement age. The checks for each child would be made out to "mother's name" for the benefit of "child's name". The money was to go to your mother for your care. The money was likely used on the rent/mortgage, utilities, food, clothes and other life necessities. There would never have been a reason for the child to sign the check even though the child's name appeared on the check along with your moms name. This money was your mom's money to use to care for you until you were no longer a minor. The benefit stops at age 18 or the month you graduate high school up to age 19. If your mother also received a caregiver benefit that would stop when the youngest child is 16. When all 3 children are 18 and out of high school there is no more benefit due to your mom. It kind of works like child support in the aspect the money is for the child, but it is not the child's money.