Well, I guess I'll just keep working a few more years and plan to file at 67. Thanks everyone for helping me understand this. So disappointed they changed these rules, but at least I know the real story now instead of making a costly mistake.

I'm in a similar boat as a newcomer here - just turned 61 and trying to figure out my Social Security strategy. Reading through this thread has been so helpful! I was also under the impression that I could take spousal benefits early and switch later, but clearly that's not the case for those of us born after 1954. One thing I'm wondering about that hasn't been mentioned - are there any other creative strategies for people in our age group? I've heard about "do-over" options where you can withdraw your application within 12 months and pay back what you received, but I'm not sure if that's still available or practical. Also, @Andre, have you considered whether you might be eligible for any other benefits while you wait? Sometimes there are state programs or other federal benefits that can help bridge the gap if you decide to wait until 67 or 70. Just a thought from another healthcare worker trying to navigate this maze!

To address your specific questions more directly: 1. Workers' Comp can reduce SSDI through the offset provision, but it doesn't directly reduce retirement benefits. However, if you're receiving SSDI (which replaces your early retirement when approved), then the WC offset would effectively reduce your total Social Security income. 2. If approved for SSDI while receiving early retirement, you would receive your full disability benefit (equivalent to your full retirement benefit) minus any applicable WC offset. This would typically be higher than your reduced early retirement amount. 3. Yes, when you reach FRA, your benefits automatically convert from disability to retirement benefits. The dollar amount stays the same, but the WC offset no longer applies. You should contact SSA about your specific case because the timing of your WC settlement and SSDI approval can affect how everything is calculated.

I'm dealing with a similar situation and wanted to share what I learned from my experience. I was also receiving early retirement benefits when I applied for SSDI, and I had a workers' comp case pending. When my SSDI got approved, Social Security did exactly what others have mentioned - they switched me from my reduced early retirement amount to my full disability benefit amount. Even though the workers' comp offset reduced my SSDI payments, I was still getting more money overall than I was with just the early retirement. One thing I wish someone had told me earlier: keep detailed records of all your workers' comp payments and settlement details. SSA will need this information to calculate the offset correctly, and if you don't have it organized, it can delay your benefit adjustments. Also, the offset calculation uses something called your "average current earnings" which is basically the higher of either your monthly benefit amount or one-twelfth of your highest year of earnings in the 5 years before you became disabled. It's confusing, but knowing this helped me understand why my offset was calculated the way it was. Hang in there - the system is complicated but it does work out in the end!

Since this seems to be a Medicare premium adjustment from what others are saying, you should check your Medicare MSN (Medicare Summary Notice) in your Medicare.gov account. Sometimes the explanation shows up there before the SSA letter arrives. Also check your spam folder if you get electronic notifications.

I had something very similar happen last month - received an unexpected $28 deposit from SSA. Turns out it was exactly what others mentioned: a Medicare Part B premium adjustment. The letter came about 10 days later explaining that my IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) had been recalculated based on updated income information, and they owed me a refund for overpaid premiums from earlier in the year. Since you mentioned having Medicare for 3 years, this is most likely what happened to you too. The amount ($32) is very typical for these types of retroactive premium adjustments. Don't worry about it being an error - these adjustments happen regularly when SSA reviews income data and Medicare premium calculations.

You've all been so helpful! Just to summarize what I've learned: 1) In my first year (2025), if I stop working in May, SSA will use a monthly earnings test for June-December 2) Even though my total 2025 earnings will be over the annual limit, I can still get my full $2,400 payment for each month after May as long as I earn under the monthly limit 3) I need to notify SSA when I retire and provide my estimated earnings 4) In 2026 and beyond, they'll switch to the annual earnings test Is that correct? One last question - if I do some consulting work after retiring that puts me over the monthly limit for just one month, do I lose benefits just for that month or for the whole year?

my friend said once they take your money away because you earned too much, you never get it back even when you reach full retirement age. is that true???

I'm so glad you found this community and asked this question! Your situation is unfortunately very common - many families don't realize that adult children disabled before age 22 can qualify for benefits on a deceased parent's record. The fact that your son's father worked his entire life and passed away 3 years ago means your son should definitely be eligible for Disabled Adult Child benefits. A few additional tips as you move forward: - When you call SSA, be very specific that you want to apply for "Disabled Adult Child benefits" or "CDB benefits" - sometimes using the exact terminology helps - If the first representative doesn't seem familiar with DAC benefits, politely ask to speak with someone who specializes in disability claims - Keep detailed notes of all your calls and any case numbers they give you The difference in monthly payments could be substantial - often $1,000+ more per month compared to SSI. Plus, no more worrying about resource limits or annual reviews of his finances. Your son has been disabled since birth and his father contributed to Social Security his whole working life - he absolutely deserves these benefits. Don't give up if the process seems frustrating at first!

I'm sorry to hear about your confusion, but you're absolutely on the right track asking about this! As others have mentioned, your son should definitely apply for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits on his father's record since his father passed away 3 years ago. One thing I'd add that might help speed up the process - when you gather those medical records from childhood, try to get a summary letter from one of the doctors who treated him early on that specifically states his cerebral palsy was present from birth/early childhood. Sometimes having a clear medical statement about the onset date can help streamline the review process. Also, don't worry too much about the 3-year gap since his father's death. While there are some time limits for certain types of claims, DAC benefits can often be claimed later, and you may still be eligible for some retroactive payments. The key is getting the application in now. Your son deserves these benefits, and it sounds like you have a strong case. The fact that he's already been found disabled for SSI purposes should definitely work in your favor for the DAC application. Good luck!