Can't find survivor benefits application after WEP/GPO repeal - website not updated?

The SSA website definitely hasn't caught up with the WEP/GPO repeal yet. My brother just went through this last week. Unfortunately, phone application is currently the only option for survivor benefits in situations affected by the repeal. SSA is completely overwhelmed with these applications right now. The website should eventually be updated but probably not for several months based on what the agent told my brother.

i had the same problm 2 weeks ago for my aunts application... the website is completly useless for this!!!! just sends u in circles and then says CALL US. so frustrating

SSA Benefits Specialist here (retired). You're correct that the website hasn't been updated to handle the WEP/GPO repeal cases yet. This is unfortunately common with major legislative changes - the online systems often lag behind by 3-6 months. Your mother-in-law will need to apply by phone or in-person appointment for survivor benefits affected by the repeal. Be prepared with: 1) Death certificate of the deceased spouse 2) Marriage certificate 3) Your mother-in-law's government pension information 4) Most recent tax documents 5) Dates of any previous marriages for both spouses The phone wait times are extremely long right now due to the surge in applications since the repeal.

I was able to help my father apply for his survivor benefits after the WEP/GPO repeal by using Claimyr to reach an SSA agent. After spending days trying to get through on my own and getting disconnected, I found this service that got me connected to an agent in about 15 minutes. It was a lifesaver since my dad's case was complicated with his government pension. The agent was able to process everything correctly. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU or just go to claimyr.com. Way better than waiting on hold for hours!

my sister just went to her local office in person for this exact same thing and they helped her right away. no waiting on the phone for hours. just my 2 cents.

I've been dealing with Social Security for YEARS and this is nothing new. They NEVER update their systems on time. My husband and I both got caught in the confusion when the FRA changed years ago. The website said one thing, the phone people said another thing, and the office staff said something completely different! Then they have the nerve to blame YOU when their mistakes cause problems. Do NOT trust what one agent tells you - always get a second opinion and GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING!!!

Update: After reading all your helpful comments, I decided to try calling. After THREE HOURS on hold, I finally got through to someone. They confirmed that yes, for WEP/GPO repeal cases, phone or in-person are the only options right now. They're "working on updating the website" but couldn't give a timeframe. So frustrating! The agent was actually very helpful once I got through and started my mother-in-law's application. They'll be mailing her some forms to complete and return. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!