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did u try filing for reconsideration after u got denied?? that mightve changed ur application date i think
We did actually file a reconsideration after the initial denial, but it was also denied because the GPO rules were very clear at that time. I'm not sure if that reconsideration date would become the new application date or if they'd still use the original application. Either way, we have documentation of both.
To follow up on my earlier comment, I want to clarify something important: The application date issue depends partly on whether your wife was technically denied spousal benefits or if she never formally applied because it was clear she wouldn't qualify due to GPO. If she formally applied and was denied (with documentation), then that application date should stand. If she never formally applied for spousal benefits because SSA representatives advised it wouldn't be worthwhile due to GPO, then you might need to establish a protective filing date. In this case, bring any documentation showing she inquired about spousal benefits, even if she didn't complete a formal application. For maximum back benefits, document every interaction you've had regarding spousal benefits over the years.
That's an important distinction! She did formally apply for spousal benefits after starting her own benefits, and we have the official denial letter. The SSA representative initially told her not to bother, but we insisted on applying anyway just to have it on record. Sounds like that was the right move, even though it seemed pointless at the time.
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my husban had similar prob. the ssa website is down ALOT for "maintenance" could just be that??? maybe try logging in at weird hours like super early morning??
The website being down isn't the issue here - they can't log in at all because they're waiting for account verification instructions that were supposed to come in the mail.
UPDATE: I want to thank everyone for their help! I used the Claimyr service that someone recommended and got through to an agent in about 10 minutes. Turns out they had my mailing address slightly wrong (wrong apartment number), so the verification letter was probably returned to sender. The agent was able to verify my identity over the phone and restore my account access immediately. I also downloaded and submitted the Medicare enrollment form as a backup. Such a relief to have this handled before my birthday next month!
So glad it worked out for you! Nothing worse than stressing about important benefits and not being able to reach anyone for help.
Thanks for updating us! This is a common issue - mail getting returned because of small address errors. For anyone else reading this thread in the future: always confirm your full mailing address (including apartment numbers) when updating any information with SSA.
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anybody know if this effects SSI too? my cousin gets SSI and is getting married next month
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is completely different from retirement benefits. SSI is needs-based, so getting married can definitely affect eligibility and payment amounts since your spouse's income and resources will count toward the limits. Your cousin should contact SSA before getting married to understand how it will affect their benefits.
So to summarize for everyone: the "claim spousal at FRA, then switch to your own at 70" strategy (restricted application) only works if you were born before January 2, 1954. For everyone else, once you file, you get the higher of either benefit and can't switch later. It's frustrating how many outdated articles are still out there!
Thanks for that clear summary! You're right about the outdated information - I think that's why I was confused. I appreciate everyone helping to clear this up.
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wait wait wait i think you guys are cofusing SSA rules. isnt there still something he can do with a 'deemed filing' exception? My friend did something like that recently. Maybe ask about that specificaly?
You're thinking of the deemed filing changes that were also part of the 2015 law. Before that change, deemed filing only applied before FRA. After the change, it applies at any age for people born on or after January 2, 1954. So unfortunately, there's no deemed filing exception that would help in this case - it's actually the deemed filing rule itself that prevents the strategy the original poster was asking about.
Thank you all for your helpful responses! It seems clear now that my husband can't collect on my record while delaying his own benefits since he was born after January 1954. We'll stick with our plan to have him wait until 70 to maximize his benefit (and my potential survivor benefit). I appreciate everyone taking the time to explain this - Social Security rules can be so confusing!
You're making a wise choice. Since your husband is already 67, he only has 3 more years of waiting, and each year increases his benefit by 8%. That higher amount will last for his lifetime and potentially yours too (as a survivor benefit if he predeceases you), so the long-term gain is substantial. Best wishes with your retirement planning!
Rachel Tao
One more thing I forgot to mention - if your school district offers a 403(b) instead of a traditional pension, that's different. WEP only applies to traditional defined benefit pensions from non-covered employment, not defined contribution plans like 403(b) or 457 plans. You need to find out exactly what type of retirement plan you have through the school district.
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Sayid Hassan
•You've all given me so much to look into! I'm going to: 1) Call my school district tomorrow to check if I'm vested and what type of plan I have (pension vs 403b), 2) Try to reach SSA to get specific calculations based on my earning record, and 3) Consider using Claimyr if I keep getting disconnected when calling SSA. Thank you everyone for the helpful information - I feel like I have a much better understanding of what questions to ask now.
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Derek Olson
One last tip: Request a benefit estimate directly from your pension system that shows what your monthly pension amount would be. If you are vested, this is the amount that would affect your calculations. Then, when you speak with SSA, you'll have all the information they need to give you an accurate WEP/GPO calculation. Also, remember that if your combined Social Security covered employment eventually reaches 30 years with "substantial earnings" (over $30,000 per year in 2025), you'd be fully exempt from WEP regardless of your non-covered pension.
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Sayid Hassan
•That's really helpful! I'm 62 now, so I don't think I'll get to 30 years of substantial earnings before claiming at 70, but I'll definitely get that pension estimate if I find out I'm vested. Thank you!
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