One more important reason to maintain access: fraud prevention. By regularly checking your account, you can make sure no one has attempted to change your payment information. Unfortunately, Social Security fraud targeting seniors is increasingly common. The online account lets you verify that everything is still set up correctly and no unauthorized changes have been made.

As someone who works with seniors on tech issues, I'd strongly recommend restoring his access. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that having online access becomes crucial if he ever needs to appeal a decision or report changes in circumstances. The portal also lets you track the status of any requests or applications in real-time. For the recovery process, I'd suggest calling SSA early in the morning (around 8 AM) when wait times are typically shorter. If that doesn't work, the in-person office visit is definitely your best bet. Bring multiple forms of ID and any documentation related to his benefits. They can usually reset everything on the spot and help set up new security questions he'll actually remember. The peace of mind alone is worth it - especially given how difficult it can be to resolve issues without account access!

When I went through this process, the SSA office told me they prefer appointments for survivor benefit applications because they're more complex. I tried to apply online and ended up having to go in person anyway. Just a heads up - their website says 60 days for processing but mine took almost 4 months before I saw the first payment! And they were backdated to my application date, so it was a big lump sum. Make sure you have enough savings to tide you over while waiting.

I'm so sorry for your loss, and I understand how frustrating the SSA can be to deal with during an already difficult time. Based on what you've shared, you should absolutely qualify for survivor benefits from your first husband. The key requirements are that your first marriage lasted at least 9 months (yours was 12 years), and you're currently unmarried - which you are. Your brief second marriage doesn't disqualify you at all since it ended in divorce. The SSA only cares about your current marital status when you apply, not past marriages that ended. A few practical tips from my own experience: Make an appointment rather than calling - it's much more efficient. Bring certified copies of all documents (both marriage certificates, both divorce decrees, your birth certificate). The SSA may already have your ex-husband's death information in their system, but ask when you schedule. At 62, you'll get about 71.5% of the full benefit, but given what you said about your work record, this might still be your best option. The agent can run calculations to show you different scenarios. Processing can take several months, so apply as soon as you're ready. Hang in there - you've got this!

When my wife hit FRA last year they suddenly DECREASED her survivor benefit without ANY WARNING!!! Said something about the 'family maximum' we never heard about before. And they gave us a $5,700 OVERPAYMENT notice!!! The whole system is DESIGNED to confuse people!!

I had a similar experience with SSA reps making changes I didn't request! When I called to update my address last year, they somehow also changed my withholding elections without me asking. It took three more calls to get it sorted out. For your situation, definitely call back and be very specific about what you want. I've found it helps to ask them to repeat back exactly what changes they're making before they process anything. Also, consider calling early in the morning (like right at 8 AM) - the wait times are usually shorter then. The good news is that direct deposit changes are usually pretty straightforward to fix once you get through to someone who knows what they're doing. Just be persistent!

Quick update - I called SSA yesterday using the Claimyr service I mentioned and got through in about 20 minutes. The agent confirmed that with the WEP/GPO repeal, you'll receive the higher of either your own benefit or the spousal benefit automatically. In my case, even though my own benefit was lower than 50% of my spouse's PIA, they still calculated and compared both options before determining which to pay me.

I'm in a very similar situation - CSRS retiree at 66, spouse already collecting SS, and I've been waiting for the WEP/GPO repeal to file. Reading through all these responses, I think I'll go with the hybrid approach: apply online first to establish that protective filing date, then use one of these callback services to speak with someone knowledgeable about the calculations. One thing I'm curious about - for those who've already gone through this process post-repeal, how long did it take from application to first payment? I know they say 3-5 months typically, but with all the CSRS folks applying after the repeal, I'm wondering if there are delays. Also, Christopher, make sure you have your W-2s from your federal employment years handy. Even though they shouldn't need them with the repeal, some agents still ask for documentation showing your covered earnings under Social Security during any non-CSRS employment you might have had.

Thank you all for the helpful information! I think I understand the situation better now. My husband would still likely benefit from the spousal boost even with filing early, but: 1. He can't receive ANY spousal benefits until I file at my FRA 2. He needs to explicitly request spousal benefits when applying 3. He'll get his own reduced benefit PLUS potentially an additional amount to reach the reduced spousal benefit level I think we need to run some calculations and possibly consult with SSA directly before making our final decision. I appreciate everyone sharing their experiences and knowledge!

Just wanted to add one important point that might help with your planning - you mentioned your husband is planning to retire at 65, but remember that he doesn't have to file for Social Security benefits just because he retires from work! If you have other sources of income (401k, savings, etc.) to bridge the gap, he could potentially retire at 65 but delay filing for SS until you claim at your FRA. That way he'd avoid the early filing reduction on both his own benefit AND any spousal benefits. Of course, this only works if you can afford to wait, but it's worth considering since the financial impact of those reductions lasts for life. The break-even analysis between claiming early vs. waiting can be tricky, especially when spousal benefits are involved.