Wow, what a relief that it turned out to be money you were actually owed! This thread has been so educational - I had no idea that SSA could do retroactive adjustments based on actual vs. estimated earnings. I'm in a similar situation (recently widowed and working part-time while receiving survivor benefits) and this gives me a better understanding of how the system works. I'm also impressed that the Claimyr service actually worked - I've been dreading having to call SSA about some questions I have. Thanks for taking the time to update everyone with the resolution!

This is such a valuable thread for anyone dealing with Social Security benefits! I'm relatively new to the survivor benefits process myself (my husband passed away 8 months ago), and I had no idea that SSA could make these kinds of retroactive adjustments based on actual vs. estimated earnings. Your experience really highlights the importance of not panicking when you see an unexpected deposit - sometimes it's actually good news! I'm also really glad you mentioned the Claimyr service because I've been putting off calling SSA about some questions I have, dreading the long hold times. It's reassuring to know there might be a better way to actually reach someone. Thanks for following through and updating everyone with the resolution - it makes this community so much more helpful when people share how things actually turn out!

I'm so sorry for your loss. This is definitely a stressful situation to navigate during an already difficult time, but you're absolutely doing the right thing by asking these questions upfront. From what I understand about Social Security timing, that September payment was most likely for August (since benefits are paid in arrears), which means your father-in-law was entitled to it since he was alive for the entire month of August. However, I'd strongly recommend calling SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to get definitive confirmation about which month that specific payment covers. When you call, also verify that the death notification has been properly processed in their system. Even though the funeral home said they'd handle it, it's worth confirming this was actually completed - sometimes there can be processing delays. Make sure to ask for a reference number for your call and keep detailed notes of what they tell you. This documentation will be helpful for estate records and your own peace of mind. You're handling this very thoughtfully by being proactive rather than just waiting to see what happens. That approach will definitely help avoid any potential complications down the road.

I'm so sorry for your loss. This is such a difficult situation to navigate during an already overwhelming time, and you're absolutely right to seek clarity on this before any issues arise. From everything I've learned about Social Security timing, that September payment was almost certainly for August since benefits are paid in arrears (meaning you receive payment in one month for the previous month). Since your father-in-law was alive for all of August, that payment should rightfully belong to his estate and you shouldn't need to return it. However, I'd definitely recommend calling SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to get official confirmation on two key points: 1) which specific month that September deposit covers, and 2) that his death has been properly reported and processed in their system. Even though the funeral home said they'd handle the notification, it's always wise to verify this was completed. When you call, have his Social Security number, date of birth, and date of death ready, and ask for a reference number for your call. The wait times can be frustrating, but getting that official confirmation will give you peace of mind and proper documentation for the estate. You're being very responsible by addressing this proactively rather than waiting to see what happens. That approach will definitely help you avoid any potential complications down the road.

Thank you all so much for your helpful advice. I'm going to gather his school records, get statements from family members and his current doctors, and try to get through to SSA to start the application process. I'm feeling much more hopeful knowing that the Disabled Adult Child benefits might be an option, even without childhood medical records. I'll update once we make some progress with the application.

Best of luck with your brother's application! One more tip - when you're gathering those family statements, ask people to be specific about what they observed over the years. Instead of just saying "he always needed help," have them describe specific examples like "I noticed he couldn't manage his money and would get confused counting change" or "he needed reminders to do basic tasks like brushing his teeth even as a teenager." The more concrete details you can provide about his limitations throughout his life, the stronger your case will be. You're doing an amazing job advocating for your brother during such a difficult time.

After reviewing the numbers again, you should be fine for federal taxes on your SS benefits as long as you don't have other significant income sources this year. To avoid surprises, consider having 10-15% withheld from your IRA distribution for federal taxes. The financial institution will have a form for this. This way you won't face an unexpected tax bill next April. And Pennsylvania, where you mentioned you live, does NOT tax Social Security benefits or retirement account distributions if you're over 59½, so you're set on the state tax front as well.

Just want to add one more consideration - since you're reaching FRA in December, make sure the timing of your IRA withdrawal doesn't accidentally trigger any earnings test issues if you have any work income this year. Once you hit FRA, the earnings test goes away completely, but before then there are limits. Also, given that you're dealing with home repairs, you might want to check if any of those expenses qualify for tax credits (like energy efficiency improvements) that could help offset some of the tax burden from the IRA distribution. Every little bit helps when you're managing on a fixed income!

Great news! One more thing to consider: make sure you request a benefit verification letter after everything is processed. This will show your correct benefit amount and serve as documentation in case there are any future questions. You can request this through your my Social Security account online or by calling SSA directly.

Congratulations on getting this resolved! This is exactly why communities like this are so valuable - collective knowledge helps people navigate these complex systems. Your experience is a perfect example of why it's important to question SSA decisions and seek second opinions. The difference between 50% and 100% benefits is huge over a lifetime. Thanks for sharing the update - it will definitely help others who face similar confusion with SSA representatives mixing up divorced spouse vs divorced survivor benefits.