After seeing the additional details, here's what you should know: Since your grandson's parents are alive (though unable to care for him), he likely wouldn't qualify for benefits on your record as a dependent grandchild. However, there's an important exception: if you've legally ADOPTED your grandson (not just conservatorship), then he could potentially qualify for benefits on your record. At that point, your wife could potentially qualify for child-in-care spousal benefits if your grandson is receiving benefits on your record. This is definitely a situation where you need to speak directly with SSA about your specific circumstances.

Just want to add that if you do decide to pursue adoption, make sure to keep all your legal documentation organized - court orders, conservatorship papers, etc. When I dealt with SSA for family benefits, they wanted to see everything multiple times. Also, the adoption process can take months, so if you're considering it anyway for your grandson's stability, it might be worth starting that process sooner rather than later. In the meantime, definitely explore those state programs that were mentioned - sometimes there are kinship care benefits or relative caregiver programs that can provide support while you're navigating the federal benefits situation.

One more important thing to check - verify that the "February" start date is showing correctly in your MySocialSecurity account. Sometimes people select a month but the system records it differently based on the day of the month you apply and when you want benefits to begin. If your account shows a March start date (rather than February), that would explain the April payment since benefits are paid the following month. If there's truly an error with your start date, you'll want to contact SSA right away to get it corrected before payments begin. Much easier to fix beforehand than to request corrections after payments have started.

I went through something very similar last year! Applied in September for November benefits, but my first payment didn't come until January. I was really stressed about it too, especially since I had planned my budget around getting that first payment sooner. What I learned from calling SSA (after many attempts) is that they're dealing with a huge backlog right now. The representative told me that while they aim to process applications within 2-3 months, it's taking closer to 4-5 months for many people. The good news is that you will get all your back benefits in that first payment - so if you're entitled to February and March benefits, you should receive both in April. One tip: keep checking your MySocialSecurity account regularly. Mine updated about a week before my first payment actually arrived, and it showed the exact amount I'd be receiving including the back pay. Hang in there - the wait is frustrating but you will get everything you're owed!

Just to wrap this up with clear action items: 1. Your first payment will come in February for January benefits 2. With a birth date on the 17th, you'll be paid on the third Wednesday of February 3. The award letter should arrive 2-3 weeks before your first payment 4. If you need to know your exact amount before then, you'll need to speak with an SSA representative 5. Your benefit will be your PIA minus Medicare premium ($174.70 standard for 2025) minus tax withholding (percentage you selected on W-4V) If you don't receive an award letter by mid-January, I'd definitely recommend making more attempts to contact SSA directly.

I'm going through this exact same situation right now! Applied in October for January benefits and my MySocialSecurity account is completely blank too. It's so frustrating that in 2025 we still have to wait for snail mail to get basic information about our own benefits. I've been checking my mailbox obsessively every day hoping for that award letter. At least now I know from reading everyone's responses that I should expect my first payment on the second Wednesday of February (my birthday is the 8th). Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it really helps to know this is normal even though it's anxiety-inducing!

Just want to add one more tip from my experience - when you submit your W-4V form, keep a copy for your records and consider sending it certified mail or delivering it in person to get a receipt. I mailed mine last year and it got "lost" somewhere in the system, which delayed my withholding by an additional month. Also, once your withholding starts, you'll see it clearly labeled on your monthly benefit statement, so you can track that it's actually happening. Good luck getting this sorted out!

As someone new to this community, I want to thank everyone for such detailed and helpful responses! I'm in a similar situation - just started receiving SS benefits and completely overlooked the tax withholding aspect. Reading through all these comments has been incredibly educational. A few things I'm taking away: 1) The W-4V form with only 4 percentage options (7%, 10%, 12%, 22%), 2) The 1-2 month processing delay, 3) The importance of considering your total income picture, and 4) That certified mail or hand delivery might be the safest way to submit. I'm definitely going to use the IRS Withholding Estimator tool and possibly consult with a tax professional before choosing my percentage. This thread should honestly be pinned as a resource for new SS recipients!

One additional point that hasn't been mentioned: Make sure to formally apply for these benefits as soon as you're eligible. The SSA will not automatically recalculate benefits for people affected by the GPO elimination. You need to initiate the process, and benefits are generally not retroactive beyond 6 months. With the phase-out schedule, determining the optimal application timing can be complex, so you might want to consult with a financial advisor who specializes in Social Security planning to maximize your lifetime benefits.

I'm also a public school teacher (25 years) and just learned about the GPO elimination! This thread has been incredibly helpful. One thing I wanted to add - I called my state teacher retirement system last week and they confirmed they're working with SSA to streamline the documentation process. They said they can provide an official letter stating your pension amount and start date that SSA will accept, which might be easier than digging up old benefit statements. Also, for those worried about the phone wait times, I've had better luck calling SSA right when they open at 8am local time. Still a wait, but usually under an hour. Good luck to everyone finally getting the benefits we've earned!