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A concrete foot generally must extend one foot below the frost line. in some cases it may have to be more or less.
The depth and width of a footer for a concrete pad will depend on various factors such as the load that will be placed on the pad, soil conditions, and local building codes. Generally, footers are often at least 12 inches deep and extend beyond the pad on each side by at least 6 inches. It is recommended to consult a structural engineer or local building authority for specific requirements for your project.
A grade beam is a horizontal structural element that spans between supports right at ground level. Usually it's a reinforced concrete wall anywhere from 12" to 30" high with only about 8" above ground. The supports it sits on are concrete piers that are buried below the frost line around 4 ft. underground and sit on a footing. In the case of a stair, it's probably spanning across the front at the lowest tread and is half buried in the ground. It allows for a solid concrete exterior stair to be supported on top of it across its whole width on the corners. Eliminating the need for pouring a full height foundation wall. This application is ideal for hard rocky sub-ground where excavating would be extremely expensive. - Residential Architect, ID
The top of the footing must be below the frost line. This varies from one geographical area to another. To be sure, contact the local building permit office where the building is to be located.
i dont know whho cares Most concrete foundations are buried 4' to get below the frost line which is around 3'.