Another consideration is the future of Social Security itself. While benefit cuts aren't imminent, the trust fund is projected to face challenges in the 2030s. Some financial planners argue this uncertainty provides a slight preference for claiming earlier rather than later, though any actual changes would likely impact future beneficiaries more than current ones. However, it's worth noting that historically, when changes have been made to shore up the system, existing beneficiaries and those close to retirement age have typically been protected. The most prudent approach is to make your decision based on current rules while staying informed about potential legislative developments.

After reading through this discussion, I want to suggest a specific strategy for your situation: Since you're both still working part-time, consider having one of you file at FRA (not 62) and the other delay until 70. This accomplishes several things: 1. Avoids the early filing reduction of 30% at age 62 2. Minimizes the earnings test impact since you'll be at FRA for one benefit 3. Provides some Social Security income during your 60s 4. Still maximizes one benefit for longevity protection 5. Creates a higher survivor benefit for whichever of you outlives the other With nearly identical earnings records, it doesn't matter significantly which one of you delays and which claims at FRA. This approach provides a balanced middle ground between claiming everything early vs. delaying everything.

To address your original question more precisely: You were told incorrect information. The 2013 application for spousal benefits is completely separate from survivor benefits. Here's what you need to do:1. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and specifically state that you need to file for survivor benefits following your husband's death.2. Mention that you already understand GPO will affect the benefit, but you still need to file a new application.3. If possible, schedule an appointment at your local office rather than trying to handle it by phone.4. Gather your husband's death certificate, your marriage certificate, and information about your pension.5. Be aware that you can receive up to 6 months of retroactive benefits from your filing date, so file as soon as possible.Despite both being affected by GPO, survivor benefits use a different calculation than spousal benefits, and many people who received $0 in spousal benefits do receive some survivor benefits.

Thank you for these specific steps. I've gathered most of those documents already, so I'll call first thing tomorrow. I really appreciate everyone helping me understand that I need to file a new application - I would have just been waiting for something that wasn't going to happen automatically!

my cousin has brain cancer too and got approved in just 3 weeks with compassionate allowance! make sure they check that box on the application its super important. also he should apply for the medicare too even though theres a waiting period still better to get it started now.

For the appointment, your brother should bring a letter from the treating physician that includes: 1. Specific diagnosis (including ICD-10 code if possible) 2. Prognosis and expected duration of disability (must be at least 12 months) 3. Current treatment plan 4. Specific statement about inability to work This will significantly speed up the process. The Compassionate Allowance program for brain tumors typically processes in 30-60 days instead of the usual 3-5 months, but having complete documentation from the start can cut that time down even further. Also, be aware that the first SSDI payment won't arrive until 6 months after the established disability onset date due to the mandatory waiting period. The onset date is typically set as the date of diagnosis, so that waiting period has already started.

do your kids live with you full time? my friend has 50/50 custody and her ex gets half the kids benefits check which seems unfair since hes not disabled

One more thing to be aware of - if you're also receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) in addition to SSDI, the children's auxiliary benefits could potentially affect your SSI amount. This is because children's benefits might count as deemed income in certain situations. However, if you're only receiving SSDI and not SSI, then this isn't a concern.

One more thing to consider: the lawyer should be willing to withdraw if they don't think they can win your case. Be wary of anyone who promises they can definitely win - honest attorneys will tell you your odds based on your specific situation. Also ask if they'll handle your case personally or if you'll be working primarily with paralegals.

I forgot to mention: once you hire a lawyer, make sure they get ALL your medical records, not just from specialists. My general doctor had notes about my fatigue and cognitive issues that ended up being crucial evidence. Also, if you've been hospitalized for your condition, those records are extremely important.