As someone who just went through this exact scenario last year at age 64, I can share what really helped me navigate this decision. The key insight that changed everything for me was understanding that the earnings test is really about annual planning, not monthly stress. Here's what I wish I'd known upfront: Create a simple monthly tracking system where you log your earnings as you go. I use a basic spreadsheet with columns for month, gross earnings, and running annual total. This lets me see exactly where I stand relative to that $23,400 limit throughout the year. The "grace year" rule mentioned by others is absolutely crucial if you're planning any work schedule changes. I claimed in March and then reduced my hours in August, which meant I got full benefits for September-December even though my annual total was over the limit. That monthly test saved me about $2,800 in withheld benefits. One practical tip: If you're close to the annual limit in November/December, you have some flexibility. I actually took unpaid time off in December to stay just under the threshold. Sometimes it's worth earning less to keep those SS checks coming. Also, don't underestimate the peace of mind factor. Yes, the math might work out better if you earn way over the limit, but having predictable monthly SS income can be really valuable for budgeting, especially if your work income varies seasonally like yours does. The whole system is definitely confusing, but once you understand the basics, it becomes much more manageable!

This thread has been absolutely incredible - I'm the original poster and I can't thank everyone enough for sharing your real experiences! When I first posted, I was so confused and overwhelmed by the SSA website and couldn't get through on their phone lines. Now I feel like I actually understand how this works and have a clear path forward. The key insights that have really helped me: 1) The "grace year" rule with the monthly test - this could be huge for my seasonal work situation 2) It's about annual earnings planning, not monthly panic 3) The earnings test withholding is temporary, unlike the permanent early claiming reduction 4) I need to be super accurate with my initial earnings estimate to avoid overpayment issues I'm going to set up a tracking spreadsheet like several of you suggested and really map out different scenarios before I make my final decision. The peace of mind factor that Isabella mentioned is important to me too - having that predictable monthly income could really help my budget. One follow-up question: for those who've actually claimed and are managing the earnings test, how often do you check in with SSA during the year? Just when your earnings estimate changes significantly, or more regularly? Thanks again everyone - this community is amazing! You've turned a really stressful decision into something I feel confident about tackling.

I'm so sorry for your loss and completely understand your frustration with this system. I went through the same thing when my husband passed and I became representative payee for our 8-year-old daughter's survivor benefits. Unfortunately, what everyone else has said is correct - there's no online portal where you can view your children's benefits, even as their representative payee. It's honestly one of the most backwards aspects of SSA's technology in 2025. Here's what I learned that might help you get some peace of mind while you wait for that appointment: **Immediate steps:** - Set up mobile alerts through your bank for deposits into both kids' accounts - you'll get instant notifications when payments hit - Start a simple log (even just in your phone's notes app) tracking expected vs actual deposit dates and amounts **For your appointment:** Ask specifically for "Benefit Verification Letters" and "Payment History" printouts for both children covering the last 12-24 months. These documents will show you exactly what they're entitled to and when payments were issued. **Long-term tracking:** I created a basic spreadsheet with tabs for each child showing monthly deposits, amounts, and any notes about changes. It takes just a few minutes each month but makes the annual Representative Payee Report so much easier. The automated SSA phone line (1-800-772-1213) sometimes has a payment status option that can give you basic information without the endless hold times, though it's limited. It's frustrating that we have to create our own monitoring systems, but once you get a routine established, it becomes much more manageable. You're clearly being very responsible about this - your kids are lucky to have someone looking out for them so carefully.

I'm so sorry for your loss and completely understand your frustration. I went through this exact situation when my wife passed and I became representative payee for our two kids (ages 11 and 14 at the time). Unfortunately, as everyone has confirmed, there's no way to view children's benefits through your MySocialSecurity account, and minors can't create their own accounts either. It's honestly baffling that SSA hasn't modernized this system for representative payees. Here's what I've found works best for tracking their benefits: **Set up bank alerts immediately** - Configure text/email notifications for deposits into each child's account. This gives you real-time confirmation when payments arrive and helps you quickly spot any issues. **Create a simple tracking system** - I use a basic Google Sheet with columns for child's name, expected deposit date, actual deposit date, amount, and notes. Takes 2 minutes per month but saves hours during annual reporting. **When you get to your appointment**, ask specifically for: - "Master Beneficiary Record" printouts for both children - "Payment History" reports covering the last 12-24 months - Contact info for your local representative payee coordinator **Pro tip**: The SSA automated phone line (1-800-772-1213) sometimes has basic payment status information available without the endless hold times. The system is definitely broken for representative payees, but once you establish a routine for tracking everything yourself, it becomes much more manageable. You're clearly being very thorough and responsible - your children are fortunate to have someone looking out for them so carefully during such a difficult time.

You've got a great plan laid out! One more resource I'd recommend is the ABLE National Resource Center website (ablenrc.org) - if you qualify for an ABLE account, you can save up to $100,000 without affecting your DAC benefits. This could be really helpful for building long-term financial security while working part-time. Also, when you do start working, ask your employer about direct deposit if possible. Having a clear paper trail of your earnings makes the monthly reporting to SSA much smoother. Some employers are also more familiar with accommodating workers with disabilities than others - don't be afraid to ask about their experience during interviews. You're taking all the right steps by getting proper guidance before jumping in. Best of luck with your work journey!

I'm so glad to see this conversation! As someone who's been on DAC benefits for 8 years and recently started working part-time at a local nonprofit, I wanted to share my experience. I was terrified at first too, but it's been really positive. A few things that helped me: - I started with just 6 hours a week to see how I handled it physically and mentally - My employer was very understanding about my need for flexible scheduling - I set up automatic monthly reporting through my SSA online account which makes it super easy - Having that WIPA counselor was invaluable - they walked me through everything step by step The work has actually improved my confidence and given me a sense of purpose beyond just managing my disability. Plus, I'm earning those work credits you mentioned for future security. You're asking all the right questions and taking a smart, cautious approach. The fact that you're planning ahead shows you'll do great with this transition!

One more important point: When you reach your Full Retirement Age (FRA), the earnings test disappears completely. So once you turn 66, you can earn unlimited income without any reduction in benefits. Keep that in mind for your future planning.

As someone new to this community, I just wanted to say how helpful this discussion has been! I'm approaching retirement myself and had no idea about the monthly vs annual earnings test distinction for the first year. The advice about formally notifying SSA about mid-year retirement seems crucial - I'll definitely keep that in mind when my time comes. It's frustrating that such an important rule isn't more widely known or automatically applied. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and knowledge here!

I just went through this exact situation last month and wanted to share what finally worked for me. Like many others here, I was stuck in the "approval limbo" for over 10 weeks after being told my application was approved. What finally broke through was combining several strategies mentioned in this thread: 1. I went to my local field office at 7 AM (they open at 9) and was first in line 2. I specifically asked for a "claims specialist" and mentioned I needed help with "payment processing holds" 3. Most importantly, I requested Form SSA-795 (Payment Status Inquiry) that Malik mentioned - this was the game changer! The claims specialist was able to see that my payment was stuck in something called a "Treasury hold" that required manual release. She submitted the SSA-795 form and put an expedite flag on my case. Within 8 business days, I received my first payment along with a letter explaining the delay. For anyone still waiting: don't let them tell you to wait longer if you're past 60 days post-approval. There's likely a specific technical hold that needs human intervention. The Form SSA-795 seems to force them to actually investigate rather than just checking the basic status. Also, bring printed screenshots of your MySocialSecurity account showing the application date and any status messages - the field office staff appreciated having the documentation. The system is definitely broken, but there are ways to navigate it once you know the right terms and procedures. Hang in there everyone!

I'm going through the exact same situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! Applied for retirement benefits in late November, got verbal "approval" from a phone rep in December, but still no payment as of today. Reading everyone's experiences here finally explains what's happening - the disconnect between application approval and payment processing systems, the birth date payment schedules that nobody explains upfront, and all these different types of holds that can occur. The information about Form SSA-795 (Payment Status Inquiry) that Malik and Giovanni shared is completely new to me - none of the phone reps I've spoken with ever mentioned this option. It sounds like this form actually forces a comprehensive review instead of just getting generic "wait longer" responses. I'm definitely going to try the field office strategy that so many people have had success with: go early (around 7:30 AM), ask specifically for a claims specialist, mention "payment processing holds" or "payment exceptions," and request the SSA-795 form if needed. It's both frustrating and reassuring to know this is such a widespread issue. The system is clearly broken, but at least now I have a roadmap for getting through it thanks to everyone's shared experiences. This thread should honestly be pinned as a guide for anyone applying for Social Security benefits! For those still waiting - we're not alone in this nightmare, and there are proven strategies that work once you know the right terminology and procedures.