

Ask the community...
my neighbor said they sending them late this year cuz of the cola increase? had to recalculate everything or something
I had this problem every year until I finally created my MySocialSecurity account online. Now I just download the PDF version and give it to my tax preparer. Much easier than waiting for the mail! The SSA customer service rep told me they mail them out in batches throughout January, and some don't go out until early February. But the online version is available by January 31st for everyone.
To answer your follow-up question about reporting: You should report changes to SSA when they happen, not just at tax time. You can report changes in work activity or earnings by calling SSA directly, visiting your local office, or in some cases through your my Social Security account online. Given that you're close to your FRA (66 and 4 months), it's worth noting that in the year you reach FRA, the rules become more lenient. For 2025, in the months before you reach FRA during your FRA year, the exempt amount increases to $59,520, and SSA only deducts $1 for every $3 you earn above the limit. Once you reach your FRA in August 2026, the earnings test no longer applies, and you can earn any amount without affecting your benefits.
That's such a relief! I had no idea the rules were different in the year you reach FRA. So it sounds like even if I expand my little flower business a bit next year, I'll still be well under that higher threshold. I'm going to call SSA to confirm all this for my specific situation. Thanks again for the help!
Wait I'm confused - I thought the new WEP/GPO bill didn't pass?? Did I miss something? Last I heard they were still debating it??
The WEP/GPO reform was included in the recent tax package legislation that passed Congress and is now awaiting the President's signature - that's what the original poster is referring to. It hasn't been signed into law yet, but it has passed both the House and Senate as part of the larger bill. The provisions would gradually phase out the penalties rather than eliminate them immediately.
Thank you all for the helpful information! This community has explained things better than hours of reading confusing government websites. I'm cautiously optimistic about the legislation but will wait to see the final details before getting too excited. I'll gather our records as suggested and be prepared to speak with SSA once the changes are official. And I'll definitely check out Claimyr when it's time to call - sounds much better than spending days on hold!
so sorry about ur son thats really tough. when we adopted our grandkids they told us we HAD to switch them to our benefits and we lost like $400 a month for each kid. later found out that wasnt true at all!! make sure u tell them specifically u just need to report the adoption but want to keep the kids on survivor benefits!!!!!
This is unfortunately a common misunderstanding, even among some SSA employees. The adoption doesn't require a benefit type change. If you have documentation showing they were receiving higher benefits before, you might want to request a reconsideration of that determination - you may be entitled to back payments for the difference.
Just wondering - how old are you and your wife? If either of you are under Full Retirement Age and earn income, it could affect family benefits on your record (another reason to keep them on survivor benefits).
Nia Thompson
THE SSA MAKES SO MANY MISTAKES!! My neighbor lost 4 months of benefits bcuz they didn't record her call properly! DOCUMENT EVERYTHING and don't trust what they tell you on the phone!!!!
0 coins
Mateo Rodriguez
•That's absolutely terrifying. It makes me wonder how many people are silently losing benefits they're entitled to because they don't know how to navigate this system. I'm getting really worried about my own filing now.
0 coins
Luca Esposito
Just to add some reassurance: while documentation is definitely important, the SSA does generally honor protective filing dates even if there's a scheduling delay. The system is designed to protect claimants' rights to benefits from first contact. One additional tip: if your sister wants to be extra cautious, she can start (but not necessarily complete) the online application process. This creates a definitive electronic record of intent to file with a timestamp, which can serve as backup documentation for her protective filing date.
0 coins
GalaxyGuardian
•This is good advice, but my experience shows it's not 100% reliable. I started an online application AND called, and they still initially claimed to have no record of my intent to file. It took multiple calls and escalation to a supervisor to get it resolved. The system is overwhelmed right now, and mistakes happen more than they should. Belt and suspenders approach is definitely warranted.
0 coins