Just wanted to add something important that I learned when helping my neighbor with this - make sure your father-in-law gets a copy of his Social Security Statement before applying! You can access it online at ssa.gov/myaccount or request a paper copy. This will show his complete work history and estimated benefits, which helps verify everything is correct before he applies. Also, since he's been working for 9 years, he's probably very close to earning those 40 credits needed. You typically earn 4 credits per year if you make at least the minimum amount (around $6,500 in 2024), so he likely already qualifies or will very soon. One more tip: if he decides to delay retirement past his Full Retirement Age, his benefits will actually increase by about 8% per year until age 70. This could be worth considering if he's in good health and can continue working!

As someone who works in immigration law, I can confirm everything mentioned here is accurate! Green card holders absolutely qualify for Social Security retirement benefits under the same rules as citizens - 40 credits (roughly 10 years of work). One additional consideration for your father-in-law: since he's been working for 9 years, I'd recommend he check his Social Security earnings record now to make sure all his wages have been properly credited. Sometimes there are discrepancies that need to be corrected, and it's much easier to fix these issues while he's still working. Also, regarding the international travel concerns mentioned earlier - if your father-in-law is from a country that has a totalization agreement with the US, he may be able to combine work credits from both countries to qualify for benefits. This could potentially help him reach the 40-credit threshold faster if needed. The key thing is that receiving Social Security benefits will NOT affect his immigration status or green card in any way - these are earned benefits he's paid into through payroll taxes.

Have you checked your my social security account online? sometimes they update the status there before sending anything in mail. also check your spam folder for emails they might have sent!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my application in early November and still waiting. Reading through all these responses is actually really helpful - sounds like 6-8 weeks is pretty normal these days even though their website says 30 days. I was starting to panic that something went wrong with my application, but it seems like they're just really backed up. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, it's reassuring to know I'm not alone in this waiting game!

I'm so sorry for your loss, and I can understand how overwhelming this must be. Just wanted to add one more important point that might help you - when you apply for survivor benefits, make sure to ask about "protective filing." This means SSA will hold your application date even if you don't have all the required documents yet. This is crucial because survivor benefits can be paid retroactively up to 6 months from your application date, not from when you have all your paperwork together. So even if it takes you a few weeks to gather everything like the death certificate, your benefit start date won't be delayed. Also, don't worry too much about the reduced benefit at 63 - you're still getting a significant amount, and the peace of mind from not having to deal with SSI reporting requirements will be worth it. Wishing you the best through this difficult process.

I'm also navigating a similar situation and wanted to share something that might help. When I called SSA about survivor benefits, they told me I could actually apply online at ssa.gov for the initial application, which saved me from having to wait weeks for an in-person appointment. You still need to provide documents, but at least it gets your claim started in their system faster. They also mentioned that if you're currently receiving SSI, they'll automatically coordinate the transition between benefits so you don't have to worry about accidentally getting overpaid or having gaps in coverage. The online application walks you through exactly what documents you'll need to mail or bring to a follow-up appointment. Might be worth checking out while you're gathering your paperwork!

One more thing - double check your February payment to make sure everything is correct going forward. Make sure they're deducting the right amount for Medicare Part B and that your withholding percentage is being calculated AFTER the Medicare deduction, not before. The first couple months of benefits often have little glitches that need to be fixed.

This is such a helpful thread! I'm starting SS benefits next month and was wondering about the Medicare Part B situation. Based on what everyone's explained here, it sounds like the key is to only expect reimbursement for months where you'd actually be paying twice - not for every month you paid in advance. And the tax withholding thing is just something we have to deal with unfortunately. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to break this down so clearly!

I noticed someone mentioned SNAP benefits earlier. Just to add to that - when your income changes after LTD ends, you may also qualify for: 1. LIHEAP (energy assistance) 2. Property tax relief/rebate programs (if you own your home) 3. Medicaid spend-down programs to help with medical costs not covered by Medicare 4. Subsidized housing options if you're renting Many people don't realize these programs exist and are specifically designed to help in situations like yours. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (search online for "Area Agency on Aging" + your county) - they have benefits counselors who can help you navigate all these programs for free.

As someone who's navigating similar health challenges, I really feel for your situation. Just wanted to add a couple things that might help: 1. Contact your state's SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) - they provide free counseling specifically for Medicare beneficiaries and can help you understand all your options when your LTD ends. 2. If you're getting close to the poverty line after losing LTD, you might qualify for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) as a supplement to your SSDI-turned-retirement benefits. It's worth checking since the income thresholds change. 3. For the life insurance issue, also look into whether your state has any burial assistance programs through social services - it's not the same as life insurance but could help with final expenses. The transition at 65 is definitely challenging, but it sounds like you're being smart by planning ahead. Wishing you the best as you navigate this!