Thanks everyone for the helpful responses. This clarifies a lot for our retirement planning. I'll definitely look into speaking with SSA directly about our specific situation, but it's good to know I have options if the unfortunate happens. The strategy of taking survivor benefits while letting my own continue to grow until 70 makes a lot of sense financially.

This is such valuable information for retirement planning. I'm in a similar boat - reached FRA but haven't claimed yet, and my spouse is a few years younger. The ability to claim survivor benefits while letting your own retirement benefits grow with delayed retirement credits until age 70 is a strategy I hadn't fully understood before reading this thread. It's reassuring to know there's flexibility in these difficult situations, even though nobody wants to think about losing their spouse. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and knowledge here.

I just wanted to add one more thing that really helped me during my CE - don't be afraid to ask for breaks if you need them! I was worried about seeming "dramatic," but halfway through my exam, I was experiencing significant fatigue and my legs were getting shaky. I asked if I could sit down for a minute, and the doctor was completely understanding. He actually made a note of it, which I think helped document how my conditions affect my stamina. Also, if you use any adaptive equipment at home (shower chair, grabber tools, etc.) or have made modifications to your daily routine because of your symptoms, definitely mention those. The doctor needs to understand not just what you CAN do, but what accommodations you need to do those things. One last tip - after your exam, write down everything you remember while it's fresh. Note how long the exam lasted, what tests were done, and how you felt afterward. If there's a significant delay in your case or if you need to appeal, these details can be really valuable. You're going to do great tomorrow. Remember, you're not asking for anything you don't deserve - you're simply documenting the reality of living with your conditions. Wishing you all the best!

Just wanted to wish you the very best for your CE tomorrow! Reading through everyone's advice here, it sounds like you're going in well-prepared. I went through a similar process for my disability claim (different condition, but same anxiety level), and what really helped me was remembering that this exam is just one piece of the puzzle - not the make-or-break moment I'd built it up to be in my mind. One small thing I'd add to all the excellent advice already given: if you take any photos or videos of yourself on particularly difficult days (maybe struggling to walk or showing tremors/coordination issues), consider mentioning that you have this documentation available. You don't need to bring it to the CE, but it can be valuable evidence for your overall case file. Also, try to get a good night's sleep tonight if possible. I know that's easier said than done with MS and neuropathy pain, but being as rested as you can be will help you communicate more clearly tomorrow. You've got an entire community here rooting for you! Please update us when you can - we'll all be thinking of you. Remember, you're simply documenting your reality, and you absolutely deserve support for the challenges you're facing. Good luck tomorrow! 🍀

This thread has been absolutely fantastic! I'm 67 and have been dreading dealing with Social Security applications, but reading through everyone's experiences here has made me feel so much more confident about the process. What really stands out to me is how the "backdating confusion" seems to be mostly a non-issue if you just apply right when you turn 70. It sounds like the SSA makes it seem more complicated than it needs to be, but the reality is pretty straightforward: apply at 70, select that month as your start date, done. I also appreciate all the practical tips people shared - applying online, having documents ready beforehand, setting up direct deposit, and applying early in the month for processing time. These are the kinds of real-world details you don't get from official guidance. One thing I'm curious about - has anyone here had experience with applying if you're still working at 70? I'm planning to keep working part-time after I turn 70, and I want to make sure that doesn't complicate the application process or affect my benefits since I'll be past full retirement age.

This has been such a comprehensive discussion! I'm 68 and turning 70 in October 2026, so I've got some time to prepare, but I wanted to thank everyone for making this so much clearer than the official SSA materials. The key takeaway I'm getting is: don't overthink it! Apply right when you turn 70, select that month as your start date, and backdating won't even be a concern. It's only the people who delay applying past their 70th birthday who run into the 6-month backdating limitation issues. I'm definitely going to follow the practical advice shared here - gather documents early, apply online a couple weeks before my birthday, set up direct deposit, and maybe even check my earnings record beforehand on the SSA website. It's amazing how much anxiety this thread has relieved just by hearing from people who actually went through the process successfully! One thing that really struck me is how the "backdating confusion" seems to be largely self-created by waiting too long to apply. The process appears much simpler when you just apply at the right time. Thanks to everyone who shared their real experiences - this is exactly the kind of practical guidance that makes all the difference!

Just wanted to add - if you're doing this for marriage, make sure your marriage certificate is certified! I made the mistake of bringing a regular copy and they wouldn't accept it. Had to go back to the courthouse to get a certified one. Also, if you have any questions about what counts as "certified," call ahead - some offices are pickier than others. The whole process is definitely a hassle but you'll get through it! 💪

Thanks for starting this thread! I'm actually going through the same process right now. One thing I learned from calling the SSA office directly is that you should also bring a backup form of ID if you have one (like a passport if you're bringing your driver's license as primary ID). The agent told me sometimes one form might not scan properly in their system, so having a backup can save you a trip back. Also, if you're nervous about the appointment, don't be! The staff I spoke with were really helpful and patient. You got this! 🙌

This is a common mistake I see people make - they don't realize that with self-employment what counts is what you TAKE HOME after business expenses. My sister-in-law was selling on Amazon and worried about going over the limit but after we sat down and calculated her actual NET income (after all the fees, supplies, shipping, etc) she was way under the limit. Just make sure you can document all your expenses if they ever ask!

Just wanted to add one more important point that might help you - make sure you're reporting your self-employment earnings to SSA promptly when they happen, not just at tax time. They have a form (SSA-1099) you can use to report monthly earnings if needed. I learned this the hard way when I had a really good month on my craft business and didn't report it right away. SSA ended up overpaying me and I had to pay it back later. It's much easier to stay on top of it month by month, especially with something like Etsy where sales can be unpredictable. Also, keep in mind that the $22,320 limit applies to your tax year, so if you started your business partway through 2024, you still get the full annual limit amount.