That's not a stupid question at all! You're absolutely right that SSI might be an option if SSDI doesn't work out. However, there are some important differences: 1. SSI payments are generally lower than SSDI (maximum of $943/month for individuals in 2025) 2. SSI has strict asset limits of $2,000 for individuals 3. SSDI has no asset limits and payment amounts are based on your prior earnings 4. After 24 months on SSDI, you qualify for Medicare Ideally, OP should pursue both paths - try to establish an onset date for SSDI that falls before their Date Last Insured expired, while also continuing with the SSI application as a backup plan. That's likely why SSA is processing both.

That's an excellent point. I have several chronic conditions besides the cancer that started back in 2012-2013. I'll make sure to document all of them and find my old medical records. Thank you!

This is an important point. SSA's internal categorization doesn't always align with how we understand disability in everyday life. Having a medical condition noted in their system doesn't necessarily mean they consider someone "disabled" for benefit purposes. It's likely just part of their family medical history tracking, especially since genetic conditions and family relationships are relevant for certain benefit determinations.

You're probably right. I just panic about anything that might affect her benefits!

I'm sorry you're having such a difficult experience. Getting your Congressional representative involved was a good move - they often have dedicated staff who work on Social Security issues and can help navigate the system. RIB-LIM may or may not apply in your case, as it depends on your specific circumstances and benefit amounts. Before your appointment, try to gather the following information to help determine if RIB-LIM applies to you: 1. Your date of birth 2. Your deceased spouse's date of birth 3. Your deceased spouse's PIA (Primary Insurance Amount) 4. Your own PIA based on your work record 5. The date of your spouse's death With this information, you or a financial advisor can better assess whether RIB-LIM affects your optimal filing strategy. I hope your situation gets resolved soon.

have u been to an office lately? the one near me has 2-3 hour waits AFTER you make an appointment. and half the time they tell you they need more documents so you have to come back again. not saying calling is better but neither option is good tbh

I had no idea about this! That's an extra bonus I wasn't expecting. Thank you!

That's a very personal decision. Remember you can work up to SGA level ($1,470/month in 2025) while your SSDI application is pending. Some people apply when they first notice significant decline, knowing the process can take time. You might also consider FMLA or reduced hours before fully stopping work. Just document everything if you do decide to apply.

For the Adult Function Report, you should describe both what you can and cannot do, but always mention the limitations and variability. For example: "I can prepare simple meals 3-4 days per week when symptoms are manageable, but require assistance on other days due to fatigue and hand tremors. I cannot stand for more than 15 minutes at a time without needing to rest." With MS specifically, make sure to emphasize the unpredictable nature of your good and bad days. Social Security needs to understand that having some good days doesn't mean you can reliably work. Mention approximately how many days per month you would be unable to function in a work environment.

Yes, they live with me full-time. Their father isn't in the picture at all. That's good to know though - I hadn't even considered custody issues affecting the benefits.

No, I'm only on SSDI, not SSI. My work history was solid enough that my SSDI payment is higher than the SSI limit. But that's still helpful info - this whole system is so complicated! I appreciate everyone helping me understand it better.

Good point! We have coverage through my husband's employer for now, but I definitely need to factor in Medicare timing as well.

This is excellent advice. The 8% per year delayed retirement credits from FRA to age 70 for the higher earner provide excellent longevity insurance. And since survivor benefits can be up to 100% of what the deceased spouse was receiving, maximizing the higher earner's benefit protects the surviving spouse regardless of which one lives longer.

Unfortunately, restricted applications are no longer available for anyone born after January 1, 1954 due to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015. Now when you file for any benefit, you're deemed to have filed for all benefits you're eligible for. The only exceptions are for survivor benefits and certain divorced spouse scenarios.

Will do! I'm going to try to get an appointment at our local office to get this all in writing.

Thank you all for the helpful information! My brother has an appointment next week to discuss this with SSA. I'm going with him to make sure he asks all the right questions about comparing his current benefit to potential survivor benefits. I appreciate everyone's advice!

Your son can initially receive DAC benefits on your husband's record when he files. Later, when you file for your retirement benefits, SSA will automatically determine which record provides the higher benefit amount for your son. If your record would provide a higher DAC benefit, they'll switch him to your record. This is one of the few cases where dual entitlement can work to maximize benefits. Your son is not permanently "stuck" with the first parent who files. SSA should handle this comparison automatically, but it never hurts to specifically ask them to check both records when you eventually file for your own benefits.

So glad you got specific numbers! One important correction though - the math you described doesn't quite work. If the family max is $4,550 and your benefit is $1,850, then there's $2,700 remaining for your children. Split between two children, that's $1,350 each, not $675. Did the SSA representative mention their actual benefit amounts?