Just wanted to add that if you're planning to work part-time after claiming at 62, it might be worth calculating whether it makes financial sense. Sometimes the combination of taxes on your SS benefits (since you'll have other income) plus the earnings test withholding can make working less attractive than you'd think. I used the SSA's online calculator at ssa.gov to model different scenarios - you can input your expected earnings and see how it affects your benefits. Also, don't forget that if you're still working, you'll continue paying into Social Security, which could increase your future benefit amount since they recalculate using your highest 35 years of earnings!

I went through this exact situation last year when I turned 62! The $1 withheld for every $2 earned over the limit is correct, and I can confirm from experience that SSA does withhold entire monthly payments rather than reducing each check proportionally. What really helped me was setting up a my Social Security account online at ssa.gov where I could report my estimated earnings for the year. This way they could adjust my payments throughout the year instead of hit me with a big surprise at tax time. Also, make sure you understand that if you have a really good earning month that puts you way over, you can sometimes benefit from the monthly earnings test in your first year of benefits - they'll apply whichever test is more favorable to you. Definitely recommend getting your exact situation reviewed by SSA directly since everyone's case can be a bit different!

I'm so glad you found this community helpful! This thread has been incredibly informative for someone like me who's still several years away from retirement. Reading through everyone's experiences with first Social Security payments has really opened my eyes to how the system actually works versus what people expect. The fact that so many people go through this same confusion with their first payment really shows there's a gap in how SSA communicates these details. It seems like a simple fix - just include a brief explanation with first payments about proration and deductions. But at least we have communities like this where people can share real experiences and help each other understand what's actually happening. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories here - this is exactly the kind of practical knowledge that helps people prepare for what can otherwise be a really stressful surprise!

This thread has been a lifesaver! I'm currently helping my elderly neighbor navigate her Social Security application, and after reading all these experiences, I now know to warn her about potential first payment confusion. It's incredible that this is such a widespread issue yet SSA doesn't proactively address it. What strikes me most is how consistent everyone's experience has been - the panic, the hours spent trying to reach SSA, only to find out it's completely normal proration. It really seems like adding one sentence to the payment notification explaining "This payment covers X days of benefits" would solve 90% of the confusion. For anyone else going through this - definitely check your MySocialSecurity account after a few days for the detailed breakdown, and remember that your second payment should be the full amount (minus any deductions you've elected). This community has shown that you're definitely not alone in this experience!

Perfect summary! One additional tip: When your husband applies, he should print or save PDF copies of all confirmation screens and any communication from SSA. This documentation can be helpful if there are any issues with processing his application.

Great advice from everyone here! Just wanted to add that you should also consider setting up direct deposit if you haven't already - it's faster and more secure than waiting for a check in the mail. You can set this up during the application process or through your MySocialSecurity account. Also, keep in mind that your husband's benefit amount might be slightly different from the estimates you've seen online, as the final calculation includes the most recent earnings data. The award letter you'll receive after approval will show the exact monthly amount. Good luck with the application process!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - it's absolutely ridiculous that they won't give you the information you need to make an informed decision! I'm a newcomer here but I've been researching this exact issue for my own situation. One thing I discovered is that you might want to try calling early in the morning (right when they open at 7 AM) or late in the afternoon - I've read that you sometimes get more experienced representatives during those times. Also, if you do get through to someone unhelpful, don't hesitate to politely end the call and try again. Different reps seem to have vastly different levels of knowledge about these procedures. I'm taking notes from all the great advice in this thread - especially about requesting the PEBES and using the specific terminology when scheduling an in-person appointment. The fact that so many people have had success with face-to-face meetings gives me hope that there's a way through this bureaucratic maze. Please keep us updated on what works for you - your experience could help others who are facing the same impossible situation!

I'm new to this community but dealing with this exact same issue! Reading through everyone's experiences has been incredibly eye-opening. I had no idea about the PEBES option or that you could request a "benefit comparison for survivor vs. retirement benefits" when scheduling an in-person appointment. What really concerns me is learning that the switch from survivor to retirement benefits is permanent - that's such crucial information that should be clearly explained upfront! It's outrageous that SSA expects us to make life-changing financial decisions without providing the basic information we need. I'm going to try calling early morning first (thanks for that tip!) and specifically ask for a PEBES using the exact terminology mentioned here. If that doesn't work, I'll schedule an in-person appointment using the language that worked for others. One question for those who've been through this - when you finally got the comparison, was there a significant processing time between getting the information and when you could actually make the switch if you chose to? I'm wondering if there are any other timing considerations I should be aware of. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and strategies. This thread has been more helpful than hours of trying to navigate SSA's phone system!

just be careful with the grace year thing. my uncle thought he had that but turns out he already used it the year before when he briefly went back to work. they don't tell you when you've used it up unless you specifically ask!!

Great to see you got confirmation from SSA! That grace year provision is such a lifesaver but you're right that it's not well-publicized. One thing to keep in mind - since you'll have those higher earning months in 2024, make sure to keep good records of your monthly earnings. Even though you're covered by the grace year, it's helpful to have documentation ready in case there are any questions later. Also, for 2025 planning - once those new limits are announced in October, you might want to calculate backwards from your June FRA date to see exactly how much you can safely earn in those first 5 months. Since you mentioned getting a wage bump and potential extra shifts, having that target number will help you maximize your earnings without any surprises. The fact that you'll have zero limits starting in June 2025 is going to be such a game changer for your work flexibility!