I went through something similar when I was trying to understand my potential survivor benefits. One thing that really helped me was getting a copy of my husband's complete earnings record from SSA (Form SSA-7050-F4). When I compared that to what they were using in their calculations, I found they had missed some of his military service credits from the 1980s that should have been included. Also, make sure they're using the correct "date of death" assumption in their projections. I noticed SSA was calculating my survivor benefits assuming my husband would pass away this year, but his statement projections assumed he'd work until age 67. That difference in assumed work years can significantly impact the final benefit amount. The other thing to double-check is whether you have any of your own Social Security benefits that might be affecting the calculation. Sometimes they'll show you a "net" amount after considering spousal benefit coordination rather than the raw survivor benefit amount.

As someone who works with retirement planning, I want to add that there's another factor that might be contributing to your confusion: the difference between "what if" survivor estimates and actual survivor benefit calculations. When SSA runs a survivor benefit estimate while both spouses are still alive, they're making assumptions about work patterns, earnings, and timing that may not reflect reality. These estimates often use current law and wage bases, but they can't account for future changes or the exact circumstances that would exist at the time of actual filing. Also, if you're looking at online estimates or statements, make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Your husband's retirement benefit estimate at FRA might be showing his unreduced benefit, while your survivor estimate might already be factoring in early claiming penalties or other reductions based on your current age. One more thing to verify: ask SSA whether they're showing you the survivor benefit amount you'd receive if you claimed immediately, or if you waited until your own FRA. The timing of when you claim survivor benefits can significantly impact the amount, and this might explain some of the discrepancy you're seeing.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through the replacement process last year at age 67. I was in almost the exact same situation - hadn't seen my card since the 1980s! What ultimately convinced me to get a replacement was when my financial advisor mentioned that some estate planning documents and certain investment transfers can be expedited if you have the physical card on hand. The online process through ssa.gov was surprisingly simple - I was worried it would be complicated, but it literally took about 10 minutes to complete the application. The card arrived in about 12 days. Now I keep it in my safe deposit box and honestly feel better knowing I have it if needed. That said, you're absolutely right that you've managed 40 years without it, so it's really a personal choice about peace of mind versus convenience!

I'm 45 and realized I'm in the same boat - haven't had my physical SS card since my early 20s! Reading through all these responses has been really eye-opening. I'm particularly struck by the points about estate planning and helping elderly relatives potentially needing to navigate SSA processes in the future. The fact that the online replacement process only takes about 10 minutes and you're limited to 10 replacements in a lifetime makes a pretty compelling case for just getting it done now while it's convenient. I think I'm going to follow the advice here and go ahead with the replacement - seems like the "better to have it and not need it" philosophy makes sense, especially since I can store it securely and not carry it around. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, this has been incredibly helpful!

As someone who works in retirement planning, I see this question come up frequently. The experiences shared here really highlight the inconsistency in how SSA handles these situations, which can be frustrating for applicants. A few additional points that might be helpful: 1) If you do decide to get your documents ahead of time, make sure they're recent certified copies - some offices won't accept copies that are more than 6 months old, 2) When applying online, there's usually a "comments" or "additional information" section where you can proactively state that you're only seeking benefits on your own record, and 3) Keep detailed notes of any phone conversations with SSA representatives, including names and dates, as this can be helpful if there are conflicting instructions later. The variation in experiences here (from @Hailey O'Leary's smooth 30-minute online process to @Talia Klein's 5-month ordeal) really emphasizes how much can depend on which representative handles your case and how clearly you communicate your intentions upfront. @Katherine Shultz - your plan to call ahead is smart. You might also want to ask specifically about local office procedures, as some field offices have their own quirks about documentation requirements.

I'm new to this community and currently going through the Social Security application process myself. Reading through everyone's experiences has been incredibly eye-opening! I just wanted to add that I called my local SSA office last week to ask about this exact situation, and the representative told me something interesting. She said that while they technically need to explore all potential benefits you might be entitled to, if you're very clear from the beginning that you're ONLY applying for retirement benefits on your own record and explicitly decline to apply for any spousal benefits, they can make a note in your file. This can help streamline the process and potentially avoid requests for marriage documentation. However, she also warned me that different offices and representatives might handle this differently, which seems to match what everyone here has experienced. She recommended having all documents ready just in case, but emphasized that being crystal clear about your intentions upfront is key. I'm planning to apply next month and will definitely be taking the advice from this thread - get the documents ready beforehand, be very explicit about only wanting my own benefits, and keep detailed records of all communications. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences!

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! 🍀

Harper, I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. Losing your spouse is heartbreaking, and having to navigate these complex Social Security decisions during such a difficult time must feel overwhelming. Reading through all the excellent advice you've received, I wanted to add a perspective that might help as you move forward. Given your situation with a $72,000 salary being so far above the earnings limit, you're essentially choosing between two clear paths: 1. Claim now and lose approximately $24,300 annually in permanently withheld survivor benefits (these don't get recalculated later like retirement benefits) 2. Wait until your FRA and receive the full unreduced survivor benefit with no earnings restrictions What stands out to me is that you have some unique advantages - job security, excellent health insurance, and time to plan strategically. The fact that your employer has been supportive suggests they might be open to the compensation restructuring ideas others have mentioned. I'd also suggest when you speak with SSA, ask specifically about how the earnings test would apply if you were to reduce your hours rather than quit entirely. Sometimes working 30 hours instead of 40 can make a dramatic difference in the benefit calculation while still maintaining your health coverage. You're approaching this with such thoughtfulness during an incredibly challenging time. The systematic plan this community has helped you develop - getting SSA calculations, exploring employer flexibility, and creating comparison projections - will give you the concrete information you need to make the best decision for your situation. Take care of yourself, and remember this community is here to support you through this process.

Harper, I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. Losing a spouse is one of life's most devastating experiences, and having to navigate these complex Social Security decisions while grieving must feel incredibly overwhelming. This entire discussion has been remarkable in terms of the comprehensive and compassionate advice you've received. The community has really helped clarify the key decision points for your situation. What strikes me most is how your high income ($72,000) relative to the earnings limit ($23,400) creates such a clear financial impact - you're looking at roughly $24,300 in permanently withheld survivor benefits annually. The critical insight that keeps coming up - that survivor benefits withheld due to earnings are gone forever, unlike retirement benefits that get recalculated later - is absolutely vital for your decision-making process. Given everything discussed here, I'd encourage you to move forward with that systematic approach that's emerged: 1. Get those specific SSA calculations (the Claimyr service sounds promising for actually reaching them) 2. Explore compensation restructuring and potential reduced hours with your employer 3. Ask SSA about monthly earnings tests for variable pay months 4. Create those comparison spreadsheets for different time horizons Your job security and excellent health benefits are real advantages that factor into this equation. The math seems to favor waiting until FRA to claim unreduced survivor benefits without earnings restrictions, but those concrete SSA calculations will give you the clarity you need. You're demonstrating incredible strength in thoroughly researching all your options during such a difficult time. Whatever path you choose will be well-informed thanks to your careful approach. This community is clearly here to support you - don't hesitate to come back with updates or additional questions as you work through this process.