Coming back to your original question: In Iowa specifically, there are no state-specific rules that would make POA arrangements affect Social Security or Medicare differently than federal guidelines. The same federal rules apply in all states. As long as your father's own income and resources haven't changed, his benefits should remain the same regardless of the POA arrangement.

Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - if your dad's memory is getting worse, you might want to consider setting up automatic bill pay for his essential expenses (utilities, Medicare premiums, etc.) through his bank account. This can help ensure nothing gets missed while you're managing his finances under the POA. Most banks can set this up easily and it gives you one less thing to worry about each month. Also, if he hasn't already, make sure he has you listed as an authorized person on his Medicare account so you can help with any issues that come up with his coverage.

Quick question - are you still working? Because if so there might be other considerations beyond just when to start benefits. The earnings test doesn't apply after FRA but might affect how backpay is calculated depending on your situation.

I went through this exact same situation two years ago with my July 1953 birthday! The confusion is totally understandable because SSA's website doesn't explain it clearly. Here's what I learned after speaking with an SSA representative: You absolutely want to select July 2025 as your benefit start month. The key thing to understand is that delayed retirement credits stop accumulating the month you turn 70 - they don't continue past that point. So waiting until August would mean you're leaving July's benefit on the table for no additional gain. The payment timing (receiving August's payment for July benefits) is just administrative and doesn't affect your benefit calculation at all. I applied in April for July benefits and everything worked perfectly - got my first payment in August and it was calculated at the full delayed retirement credit rate. Don't second-guess yourself on this one!

One thing to try while waiting: call your local SSA office directly (not the main 800 number) first thing when they open in the morning. Explain your situation and ask if they've had any appointment cancellations. Sometimes they can fit you in much earlier if you catch them at the right time. Make sure to mention that you've already attempted to apply online but the system wouldn't allow it due to WEP.

I'm dealing with a similar WEP situation and it's incredibly frustrating! I'm a retired teacher receiving a pension, and when I tried to apply for spousal benefits online last month, I got the same error messages. What's particularly annoying is that the SSA website makes it sound like ALL spousal benefit applications can be done online now, but they don't mention anywhere that WEP cases are excluded. I ended up having to schedule an appointment for February 14th, which felt like forever to wait. One thing that helped me was contacting my congressman's office - they have caseworkers who can sometimes expedite SSA appointments for constituents. It might be worth a try if you're really in a bind financially. Good luck with your March appointment!

whats the advantage of doing this again? so confused by all the different options lol

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this frustrating situation! As others have mentioned, the SSA rep was absolutely wrong. You CAN file a restricted application for widow's benefits at your FRA while letting your own retirement benefit grow until 70. I had a similar experience last year - the first person I spoke with insisted it wasn't possible, but I persisted and eventually got someone who understood the rules. What helped me was being very specific about the language: I said "I want to file a restricted application for widow's benefits ONLY, and I am NOT applying for my own retirement benefits at this time." When your local office calls back, if they give you the same incorrect information, don't hesitate to ask for a supervisor or Technical Expert. You might also want to mention that this is allowed under current law and that the 2015 changes to deemed filing rules do NOT apply to survivor benefits. Your previous mother's/father's benefits from 15 years ago are completely separate and won't affect your widow's benefits now. Stay strong and don't let them discourage you - you're entitled to this benefit strategy!

I'm so sorry for your loss, Freya. Losing a spouse is devastating enough without having to navigate the SSA bureaucracy during such a difficult time. I'm glad you were able to make progress with that Claimyr service! For others reading this who might be in similar situations, I'd also recommend reaching out to local senior centers or Area Agencies on Aging - many have volunteers who are familiar with SSA processes and can help guide you through the paperwork or even accompany you to appointments. Some also have relationships with SSA offices that can help expedite things. Also, if anyone is caring for a deceased person's minor children, don't forget that survivor benefits may be available for dependent children too (up to age 18, or 19 if still in high school). The family maximum rules can be complex, but it's worth exploring if applicable. Wishing you all the best as you work through this process, Freya. Please do keep us updated!

I'm really sorry for your loss, Freya. What you're going through with SSA is unfortunately all too common these days. I went through a similar situation when my father passed last year, and the waiting times were absolutely brutal. A few additional tips that helped me: 1. If you haven't already, gather ALL your documents now - certified copy of death certificate, marriage certificate, birth certificates, your husband's W-2s or tax returns from the last 2 years, and bank statements. Having everything ready will speed things up once you do get your appointment. 2. Keep detailed records of every interaction - date, time, who you spoke with, reference numbers. SSA loses paperwork frequently and you may need to reference previous conversations. 3. Consider applying for any immediate assistance programs through your state while waiting for survivor benefits to kick in. Many states have emergency assistance for widows/widowers. 4. If you're really struggling financially, emphasize this when requesting expedited service - they do have procedures for "dire need" cases, though getting them to actually use those procedures can be challenging. The fact that you got through with Claimyr is fantastic news! Hoping the rest of your process goes smoothly and you get your benefits soon.