One more important consideration: if you're planning to withdraw your application, calculate the break-even point before proceeding. At a high level, divide the total amount you're repaying by the monthly increase you'll receive by waiting. This will tell you approximately how many months it will take to recover the repaid amount. For example, if you repay $13,500 and your monthly benefit will increase by $400 by waiting until FRA, it would take about 34 months to break even. If you plan to live beyond that point, the withdrawal makes financial sense.

Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - make sure to keep detailed records of EVERYTHING during this process! I work in benefits administration and I always tell people to make copies of all forms before submitting, keep tracking numbers if you mail anything, and document every phone call or visit with names, dates, and what was discussed. The SSA processes thousands of these withdrawals, but for you it's a one-time deal that involves thousands of dollars. Having good documentation will save you headaches if there are any issues or delays. Also, consider submitting your Form SSA-521 via certified mail so you have proof of delivery. Good luck with your decision!

Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - when you do apply online, make sure you complete the application in one sitting if possible. The system times out after a certain period of inactivity and you might lose your progress. I learned this the hard way! Also, double-check that all your personal information matches exactly what's on file with SSA (name spelling, date of birth, etc.) to avoid any delays in processing. The online application is actually pretty user-friendly once you get started, and it will clearly prompt you for your spouse's information when needed. You're doing the right thing by researching this beforehand!

I'm so glad you found all this information helpful! As someone who works with Social Security beneficiaries regularly, I can confirm that the automatic calculation system really does work well for most people at full retirement age. The key points everyone has shared are spot on. One additional tip: if you're worried about making any mistakes during the online application, you can always call ahead to SSA (even using that Claimyr service if needed) to ask them to make a note in your file about your intent to file for all available benefits. That way there's a record of your request. Also, don't stress too much about getting everything perfect - SSA representatives are generally helpful in sorting out any issues that come up during processing. The most important thing is just getting your application submitted around your 67th birthday to avoid any delays in payments. You've got this!

Just be prepared for them to ask for MORE DOCUMENTS even after you submit everything! They asked for our marriage certificate TWICE and delayed my claim another 3 weeks because of their own mistake!! The whole system is a bureaucratic nightmare designed to frustrate people when they're most vulnerable!!

I'm so sorry for your loss, Aaron. I went through this exact same situation when my father passed away two years ago. The complete lack of online visibility for survivor benefits applications is incredibly frustrating, especially when you're already dealing with grief and financial stress. What helped me was calling the SSA national number (1-800-772-1213) at exactly 8:00 AM when they open - I had much better luck getting through early in the morning. When I finally reached someone after about 45 minutes on hold, they were able to confirm my application was in the system and give me a rough timeline. The representative explained that survivor benefits go through a completely different review process that involves verifying death certificates, marriage records, and calculating benefits based on your husband's work history. This manual review is why it doesn't show up in the automated online system. In my case, it took about 6 weeks to receive the approval letter, and the first payment came about 10 days after that. The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, but try to hang in there. Your application is likely progressing normally even though you can't see it online.

One thing nobody mentioned - might have tax implications even if it doesn't affect your SS benefits! My accountant said unexpected income like this can sometimes push you into higher Medicare IRMAA brackets even if it doesn't count for the earnings test. Just something else to think about...

my mom got a backpayment from her old job and ss never even knew about it so maybe just dont tell them lol

Just to provide a bit more context on why this system exists this way: The intention of SSDI is to provide income to those who cannot work due to disability, essentially replacing the income you would have earned until retirement age. The intention of delayed retirement credits is to compensate people for delaying the start of their benefits. Since SSDI recipients already receive benefits early, the system doesn't allow for both advantages (early receipt and delayed credits). There's no way to "pause" SSDI at FRA and then restart as retirement at 70 with increases.

As someone new to this whole SSDI system, I really appreciate this detailed discussion! I'm currently going through the application process and was wondering about these same things. It's disappointing to learn that we can't get those delayed retirement credits, but like others have said, at least we're getting our full benefit amount years earlier than we would otherwise. One question though - does anyone know if there are any other ways our benefits might increase over time besides the annual COLA adjustments? I'm trying to understand what to expect for long-term financial planning.