Thank you all for this helpful info! I think I'm going to run some actual numbers based on what you've shared. It seems like I have three choices: 1. File at 62, take the permanent reduction AND deal with earnings test reductions 2. Keep working but reduce hours to stay under that $22,320 limit 3. Just wait until my FRA to avoid all these complications I'm leaning toward option 3 now that I understand better. One more question though - when my husband files at 70, does that mean I need to file something with SSA right away to establish myself as eligible for spousal benefits later? Or can I just wait until I reach FRA and then apply?

I'd like to add one more consideration that might help with your decision. Since you mentioned your husband is delaying until 70 to maximize his benefits, you should know that his higher benefit amount will also increase your potential spousal benefit. Spousal benefits are calculated as a percentage of his Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), not his actual benefit amount with delayed retirement credits. However, there's a strategy some couples use called "claim and invest." If you claim spousal benefits at 62 (even with the reductions), you could potentially invest those payments for the 5 years until your FRA. Depending on market performance, this might offset some of the permanent reduction - though this comes with investment risk. Also, regarding your work situation: the earnings test only applies until you reach FRA. Once you hit 67, you can earn any amount without benefit reductions. And as Omar mentioned, any benefits withheld due to the earnings test aren't lost forever - they increase your future monthly payments. Given your numbers ($950 own benefit vs $1,500 spousal at FRA), waiting until FRA for spousal benefits probably makes the most financial sense unless you have an immediate need for the income.

I'm a former SSA employee and unfortunately what you experienced is becoming the norm at most field offices. The staffing shortages are real and many offices are operating with skeleton crews. Here's what I'd recommend based on your situation: 1. **Online application is your best bet** - Complete it as a retirement application, then in the remarks section write something like: "I am applying for SPOUSAL BENEFITS ONLY on my husband's record. Husband's name: [Full Name], SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX. I want to file a restricted application for spousal benefits while allowing my own retirement benefit to continue growing until age 70." 2. **Upload documents** - You can upload your marriage certificate directly through the online portal, which will speed up processing. 3. **Don't wait for their call** - In my experience, about 30% of scheduled phone appointments either don't happen or happen late. The online route is much more reliable. 4. **Follow up** - After submitting online, call the 800 number in about 2 weeks to confirm they received everything and understood your intent for spousal benefits only. The whole "I don't have 45 minutes" excuse is ridiculous - that's literally what they're paid to do. But fighting the system won't help you get your benefits faster. The online route with clear instructions in the remarks section is your fastest path forward.

I work as a benefits counselor and see this type of scheduling delay constantly now. The SSA field offices are running on bare minimum staff and using phone appointments to manage their impossible caseloads. Here's my advice: Go with the online application immediately. Don't wait 7 weeks for a phone call that may or may not happen on time. In the remarks section, be very specific: "I am filing a RESTRICTED APPLICATION for spousal benefits only on my husband's record [include his name and SSN]. I do NOT want to file for my own retirement benefits at this time as I plan to delay until age 70 for maximum credits." Since you're 67 and born before 1954, you have this valuable option that younger people don't. Take advantage of it! The online system actually processes these faster than phone applications in most cases. One tip: After you submit online, print out your confirmation receipt and keep calling every 2 weeks to check status. The squeaky wheel gets the grease with SSA unfortunately.

After scheduling with Claimyr, I found the SSA agent I spoke with was really helpful about explaining the next steps. They told me exactly what documents to bring to my in-person appointment. Saved me from making multiple trips. Since you're dealing with a somewhat unusual situation with your brother-in-law being estranged and homeless, it might help to talk to an agent first who can advise on your specific case before going in.

I'm so sorry for your loss and what you've had to go through with this difficult situation. As someone new to navigating Social Security benefits, I wanted to ask - is there a time limit on when you need to apply for the $255 death benefit? I see someone mentioned 2 years, but I'm wondering if that's a hard deadline or if there are any exceptions, especially in cases like yours where the person was homeless and estranged from family. Also, if you don't mind me asking, roughly how long did the whole process take from start to finish for those who have been through this? I'm trying to help my elderly neighbor who might be in a similar situation soon.

had this happen last year banks dont know SS rules half the time lol they almost sent back june and july payments when my uncle died in august!!! crazy stuff

I'm sorry for your loss, Ella. I went through this exact situation when my father passed away in 2022. The key thing to remember is that Social Security payments are made for the PREVIOUS month, so that August 3rd payment was legitimately for July when your mother was alive the entire month. Here's what I'd recommend: Contact the bank manager immediately and be very specific - tell them to ONLY return the August 28th payment (which would be for August, a month she didn't live through completely). The August 3rd payment should stay in the account as it was properly earned for July. I'd also suggest getting this in writing from the bank about which payment they're returning, just in case there are any issues later. Banks sometimes get confused about Social Security payment timing, so being crystal clear upfront will save you potential headaches down the road. If they do accidentally return the wrong payment, you'll need to contact SSA with your executor paperwork and death certificate to get it straightened out. Better to prevent the mistake than fix it later though!

Has anyone else noticed their monthly payment amount is WAY LESS than expected??? My friend with lung cancer got approved last year and was shocked when he only got about $1900/month even though he made good money before getting sick. I heard SSDI has some weird maximum cap on benefits no matter how much you paid into the system!!!

I'm so sorry you're going through this difficult time with your diagnosis and the financial stress that comes with it. I wanted to share some additional information that might help ease your worries. Since you mentioned your case was expedited with a handwritten note, that's actually a really positive sign. It shows the examiner took special care with your file and felt confident about the 09/15/2023 onset date recommendation. In my experience with family members who've gone through similar situations, when there's clear documentation like hospitalization records supporting the onset date, SSA rarely changes it in the final decision. One thing that might help with the waiting anxiety - you can create a my Social Security account online if you haven't already. Once your case is fully processed, you'll be able to see your benefit amount and payment schedule there. It's usually updated within a few days of the decision. Also, don't forget to ask about Medicare eligibility when you speak with SSA. With SSDI, you typically become eligible for Medicare 24 months after your entitlement date, but there are some exceptions for certain conditions that might apply to your situation. Take care of yourself and focus on your treatment. The financial piece will work itself out, and from what you've described, it sounds like everything is moving in the right direction.