I'm a retired teacher from Texas who went through this process last month. Applied online on February 3rd and received my first payment on March 7th - so about 5 weeks total. The key thing that helped me was creating a detailed timeline of my previous GPO denial with dates and reference numbers. One tip: when you apply, ask specifically about the "GPO repeal expedited review" - apparently there's a special code they can put on your application that prioritizes it. My local SSA office didn't mention this initially, but when I called back and asked about it, they were able to add it to my case. Also, make sure to ask for a receipt or confirmation number when you submit everything. I had to follow up twice because they initially couldn't locate my application in their system. Having that confirmation number saved me from having to start over completely. The retroactive payments back to January were included in my first payment, which was a nice surprise! Hang in there - it's worth the wait after all these years of getting nothing due to GPO.

I'm also a retired teacher dealing with the same situation! Lost my husband two years ago and was devastated to learn I'd get zero survivor benefits due to GPO. Reading everyone's experiences here gives me so much hope. Based on what I'm seeing from all your posts, it sounds like the key factors for faster processing are: 1) applying in person if possible, 2) having all documentation ready, 3) asking about that "GPO repeal expedited review" code that StarStrider mentioned, and 4) getting a confirmation number. I'm planning to apply next week and will definitely ask about those special WEP/GPO appointment slots that Natalie mentioned. After years of getting nothing, I'm cautiously optimistic that this repeal will finally give us the benefits we deserve. Thank you all for sharing your experiences - this community support means everything during such a difficult process!

Great summary, Mei! One additional tip I'd add - when you check your MySocialSecurity account each January, look specifically at your "Benefit Verification Letter" which will show any adjustments from the previous year's recalculation. Also, keep your W-2s and pay stubs from each year you work while collecting benefits - this documentation can be crucial if you ever need to dispute a missing recalculation like Fatima experienced. At your income level of $88k, you should definitely see some meaningful increases over the next few years as those early low-earning years get replaced!

As someone who's been through this process, I can confirm that the automatic recalculation definitely works! I started collecting at 66 and continued working for three more years. Each year, I got a modest bump (around $25-40 monthly) beyond the COLA increase. The key thing I learned is to be patient - the recalculation typically doesn't show up until late in the following year, sometimes as late as December. Also, don't forget that if you're still working and earning good money like you are, you might also be subject to taxes on your Social Security benefits depending on your total income. But the recalculation feature is one of the nice perks of delaying retirement while collecting - you get credit for those continued contributions to the system!

One important thing - if you're under Full Retirement Age and still working, make sure to discuss the earnings limit with them ($22,320 for 2025). If you earn over that limit, they'll reduce your survivor benefits by $1 for every $2 you earn above the limit. They should cover this in the appointment, but if they don't, make sure to ask about it specifically if it applies to your situation.

I'm so sorry for your loss, Sofia. I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago when my mom passed away. The appointment letter wording is confusing, but everyone here is right - they handle both the lump sum AND the monthly survivor benefits in the same visit. One thing I'd add to the great advice already given: if you're feeling overwhelmed during the appointment (which is totally normal), don't hesitate to ask them to slow down or repeat something. The SSA representative I worked with was very patient and understanding about the emotional state I was in. They're used to dealing with people who are grieving and trying to process a lot of information at once. Also, if possible, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member with you for support and as a second set of ears. Sometimes having someone else there to help remember details can be really helpful. Take care of yourself during this difficult time.

my neighbor got her exs ss when he died but she had to wait till she was 60 even tho they were married for like 30 years... the whole thing is confusing

This is such valuable information for anyone in a similar situation! I wanted to add that it's also worth keeping copies of all your important documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.) in a safe place where you can easily access them if needed. One thing I learned from helping my mom navigate Social Security issues is that having everything organized beforehand makes the process much smoother when you're already dealing with the stress of a loss. You might also want to consider reaching out to your local Social Security office to get familiar with their procedures now, rather than waiting until you actually need to file a claim. It sounds like you have a good understanding of your situation now thanks to all the helpful responses here. The fact that your marriage lasted 22 years definitely works in your favor, and being on SSDI shouldn't prevent you from receiving the higher benefit if your ex-husband's amount exceeds yours.

The whole system is needlessly complicated. When I filed for benefits on my ex's record, the SSA agent told me I should have waited until FRA but by then it was too late - once you file early, you're stuck with the reduced amount forever. Just make sure you understand all the implications before you submit that application!

Didn't they also change it so if your ex dies you can switch to survivor benefits? Those work differently I think. My aunt did that and got more money when her ex passed away even though she started regular benefits early.