To clarify for everyone in this thread: 1. The earnings test is based on age, not benefit type 2. Once you reach your Full Retirement Age (FRA), the earnings test no longer applies regardless of benefit type 3. The monthly earnings test only applies in the calendar year you first become entitled to benefits 4. Switching from one benefit type to another doesn't trigger a new application of the monthly test Since the original poster is reaching FRA in August 2025, they need to be concerned about the earnings test for January-July only. After that, they can earn unlimited amounts without affecting either benefit type.

just wanted to say thanks for asking this question, im in almost same situation but switching in october. this thread is really helpful

Thank you all for the incredibly helpful responses! I've made a list of questions based on your suggestions. One more thing - has anyone dealt with the lump sum retroactive payment? If I take the 6 months retroactive benefits, does that permanently reduce my monthly amount as if I had filed 6 months earlier? Or do I still get my full FRA amount going forward?

when i had my call they rushed me through everything and i forgot half my questions! write everything down ahead of time and dont let them rush you. if you have a spouse definitely mention that because they might not ask. good luck!!

One more thing to consider - since this involves a cancer case, you should mention to the Tampa office that this falls under Compassionate Allowances guidelines. This might help prioritize getting these documents processed quickly once they receive them. Also, document EVERYTHING about your attempts to submit these records. Note the date, time, and name of every person you speak with. If your husband's back payments get delayed because of their document mishandling, this documentation will be important for appealing any issues with the retroactive payment date.

just wondering did u get a receipt when u dropped off the papers?? they supposed to give u one i think. that could help prove u actually gave them the stuff if they try to deny it later

My situation was similar but I had a completely different outcome. My husband died, I got survivors benefits, kept working, had some reductions. I'm thinking the rules must have changed recently? Because when I switched to my own benefit two years ago, they did some kind of adjustment. Maybe talk to a different SSA person?

Thank you everyone for the helpful information! I'm going to schedule my appointment to file for retirement benefits soon, and I'll make sure to check my earnings record carefully beforehand. It's disappointing about not getting those deductions back, but at least now I understand how it works and won't be surprised. I appreciate all your insights!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! This clarifies a lot for me. It sounds like my wife claiming her own benefit early doesn't directly affect potential survivor benefits, which is what I was worried about. And it seems like my plan to delay my own claiming is a good idea for maximizing her potential survivor benefit if needed. I'm thinking our strategy should be: 1. Have my wife claim at 63 as planned 2. I'll delay at least to my FRA (67) or possibly even to 70 for maximum survivor protection 3. If I pass away before claiming, she can either take reduced survivor benefits immediately OR stay on her own reduced benefit until her FRA and then switch to full survivor benefits Does this sound like an optimal approach given our situation? And should we consult with someone at SSA directly to confirm all this?

Your strategy sounds solid. The only thing I'd add is that talking directly with SSA probably won't give you the strategic advice you're looking for - they'll explain the rules but typically don't provide planning strategies. A financial advisor who specializes in Social Security claiming strategies might be more helpful. As for verification, the SSA.gov website has good information on survivor benefits if you want to confirm. Look under "If You Are The Survivor" section.