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Can't find withdrawal form in my Social Security account - is online withdrawal possible?

I submitted my application for Social Security retirement benefits last week, but after thinking it through more carefully, I've decided I want to withdraw it and wait until I reach my full retirement age. I logged into my mySocialSecurity account to find the withdrawal form (SSA-521), but I can't locate it anywhere in my account. There's no option to withdraw my application online from what I can see. Is this something that can only be done by mail or in person? Has anyone successfully withdrawn their application recently? The clock is ticking since I know I need to withdraw within 12 months of my approval. Thanks for any guidance!

You can't withdraw online. I tried doing this last year and ended up having to print out form SSA-521 and mail it in. Its annoying they make it so easy to apply but then make you jump through hoops to cancel! You might be able to fax it too, I'm not 100% sure.

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Emily Thompson

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Thanks for confirming. So frustrating that they don't make this easier! Did your withdrawal go through without issues? How long did it take?

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Daniela Rossi

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The withdrawal process (Form SSA-521) cannot be completed online. You have three options: 1. Download and print the SSA-521 form from the SSA website, complete it, and mail it to your local Social Security office 2. Call and request they mail you the form 3. Visit your local office in person (appointment recommended) Remember that if you've already received benefits, you'll need to repay all benefits you and anyone else received based on your application. Also, be absolutely certain about withdrawing - you can only withdraw once in your lifetime.

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Ryan Kim

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is there a time limit to withdraw? i thought i heard something about 12 months?

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Daniela Rossi

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Yes, you're correct. You must withdraw your application within 12 months of the month you became entitled to benefits. After that 12-month period, you cannot withdraw your application.

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Zoe Walker

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my brother tried to withdraw his application but he waited too long. make sure you do it within 12 months! and remember you have to pay back any money you already got from them

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Emily Thompson

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I haven't received any payments yet, so at least I don't have to worry about repaying anything. Sorry about your brother's situation though!

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Elijah Brown

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I had a similar situation early this year and it was incredibly frustrating. After spending HOURS trying to reach someone at SSA to help with my withdrawal (kept getting disconnected or put on eternal hold), I found out about Claimyr.com which helped me get through to a representative in about 15 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They actually have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The SSA rep confirmed what others have said - you can only withdraw by submitting form SSA-521 by mail, fax, or in person at an office. It's not available online. For something this important, I'd recommend getting it processed with a live person rather than trusting the mail system.

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Emily Thompson

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This is really helpful, thank you! I'll check out that service. I've been trying to call all morning with no luck. Did you mail your form or were you able to handle it all during the phone call?

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Elijah Brown

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I eventually took the form to my local office after speaking with the representative. They suggested bringing it in person would be faster than mailing it. If you go that route, definitely make an appointment first!

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Maria Gonzalez

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The fact that we can apply online but NOT withdraw online is RIDICULOUS!!! Just another example of how backward the SSA system is. I went through this nightmare last year and ended up having to take a day off work to go to the office in person because I didn't trust the mail would get there in time. Good luck!!!

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Natalie Chen

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Yeah its crazy how they make everything harder than it needs to be. My mom had the same problem

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Daniela Rossi

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Just to clarify an important point: while you're correct that you need to submit form SSA-521 to withdraw your application, there's a distinction between "withdrawal" and "suspension" of benefits. If you've already been approved and want to stop receiving benefits temporarily but don't want to formally withdraw, you can suspend your benefits by contacting SSA. Unlike withdrawal, suspension doesn't require repayment of benefits already received, and you can restart at any time with increased benefits due to delayed retirement credits. This might be another option depending on your specific situation.

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Emily Thompson

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That's really interesting! I didn't know suspension was an option. In my case, I haven't been approved yet (just applied last week), so I think withdrawal is what I need. But good to know about suspension for future reference.

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Ryan Kim

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when i tried to withdraw mine the lady at the ssa office told me i should think about it for a couple more days before submitting the withdrawal form... she said lots of people change their mind back and forth. just something to think about since you only applied last week maybe give it a few more days?

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Emily Thompson

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I appreciate the suggestion, but I've done quite a bit of math on this and am confident waiting until my FRA will give me a significantly better financial outcome given my health and family longevity. My decision is pretty firm at this point.

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After you submit the withdrawal form make sure to follow up! My cousin submitted his withdrawal form and they somehow lost it. He had to submit it again and almost missed the 12-month deadline. The SSA is a mess these days!

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Emily Thompson

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That's concerning... I'll definitely follow up. Would hate to assume it's being processed only to find out they never received it!

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