Update: I decided to apply online last night after reading everyone's advice. It took about 45 minutes total. The questions were pretty straightforward, though I did have to dig through some files for exact dates. I'll post again when I hear something from SSA. Thanks everyone for your help - I feel much less stressed now knowing I'm still within the timeframe!

Congratulations on getting your application submitted! That's a huge relief. I just wanted to add one more tip for anyone else in a similar situation - make sure to keep checking your my Social Security account regularly over the next few weeks. Sometimes they'll request additional documentation or clarification, and responding quickly can prevent delays. Also, if you don't hear anything within 2-3 weeks, don't hesitate to follow up. The squeaky wheel gets the grease, especially with government agencies. Best of luck with your January start date!

Just to address your complicating factors - with a government pension where you didn't pay into Social Security, you definitely want to speak with someone directly. The WEP/GPO provisions are complex, and the online system doesn't give personalized guidance on how these will affect your specific benefit amount. The good news is that while you're waiting for your in-person appointment, you can still create a my Social Security account online and review your earnings history. This gives you time to identify any errors in your record and gather documentation to correct them if needed. Sometimes old employers aren't properly recorded or earnings are missing, and fixing these issues before you apply can increase your benefit amount.

I was in a similar situation last year - really nervous about applying online but didn't want to wait months for an appointment. I ended up doing a hybrid approach that worked well for me. I started the online application just to see what information they were asking for, then printed out all the questions and gathered my documents. I didn't submit it though. Instead, I called the national number (1-800-772-1213) early in the morning around 8 AM when wait times are shorter and had them walk me through the trickier parts over the phone. Then I went back online and completed it with confidence. The phone rep was actually really helpful and caught a mistake I would have made about my benefit start date. Might be worth trying this approach while you're waiting for your in-person appointment - gives you a backup plan if you decide you're comfortable enough to proceed online!

I forgot to mention in my earlier post - PRINT EVERYTHING when you're done with the online application!!! I didn't save my confirmation number and then had a minor panic attack when I didn't hear anything for 3 weeks. Take screenshots or print the confirmation page because you'll need that reference number if you have to call and check on status.

As someone who just went through this process at 68, I completely understand your anxiety! I was terrified of making a mistake too. I ended up doing the online application and it was honestly much easier than I expected. One thing that really helped calm my nerves was creating a my Social Security account first (if you don't already have one) and reviewing my earnings record before applying. That way I could see all my employment history and catch any errors beforehand. The actual application walks you through everything step by step, and you can save your progress if you need to take breaks or gather more information. The key thing at your age is getting those retroactive benefits - make sure to select the earliest possible start date when prompted. Don't let the anxiety keep you waiting any longer! You've earned these benefits and deserve to start receiving them. Good luck!

Another important tip if you're moving to Portugal specifically - they have a favorable tax regime for new residents called the NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) program that might allow you to pay little to no tax on your Social Security benefits for 10 years. Definitely consult with a Portuguese tax advisor who specializes in expats before making your move.

Just wanted to add that you should also consider setting up online banking access before you move! I made the mistake of not doing this properly before relocating to Costa Rica, and it was a nightmare trying to verify my identity remotely later. Most US banks will let you manage everything online, but some security features require you to be physically present to set up initially. Also, make sure your bank knows about your move - mine froze my account thinking my Portugal transactions were fraudulent! A quick call to let them know your travel/relocation plans can save you a lot of headaches.

One more thing to consider - if you're taking care of any children or dependents with disabilities that your late husband was supporting (even if not biological children), there might be benefits available to them. Also, while the 9-month marriage rule is generally strict, there are occasionally unique circumstances where SSA can make exceptions. For anyone dealing with a similar situation, it's worth filing an application even if you think you'll be denied, because: 1. The application establishes your protective filing date 2. You get a formal, appealable decision 3. Sometimes unusual circumstances do result in exceptions In your specific case, since you mentioned you're 58 now, the most viable path would likely be examining benefits based on your 10+ year first marriage when you reach age 62, while comparing that amount to what you'd receive on your own record.

wait i'm confused...if you were with him for 16 years why did you only get married 6 months before he died? not judging just wondering if there was a reason because that timing seems important