Filing for Social Security overseas - FBU vs US applications for expats?

I filed thru the FBU at the US Embassy in Bangkok last year. Was actually pretty smooth! Emailed them my documents, had a phone interview, and got approved about 8 weeks later. Never had to physically go to the embassy. One thing to know - make sure ALL your docs are in perfect order because if something's missing it can really delay things.

I did the opposite of the previous commenter and flew back to Dallas to file in-person. In my situation, it was definitely worth it because I had some complications with my earnings record that needed sorting out. The SSA rep was able to access everything right there and fix several issues. Got approved before I even flew back to Spain. If your case is straightforward, FBU is probably fine, but if there are any complications, being in-person at an SSA office is invaluable.

whatever u do DONT use the online application if ur overseas!! system kept crashing when i tried putting in my foreign address. wasted hours and had to start all over THREE TIMES!! so frustrating!!

I've been an expat in Germany for 15 years and handled my Social Security application through the FBU at the Frankfurt Consulate last year. A few important points to consider: 1. FBUs typically take 30-120 days to process applications, while US offices can sometimes complete everything in a single appointment if all documentation is in order. 2. If you have any complications (mixed earnings records, foreign pensions that trigger WEP calculations, or previous marriages that might qualify for spousal benefits), going to the US can be advantageous. 3. Direct deposit to foreign banks can be complicated - some countries have better banking relationships with SSA than others. Portugal is generally fine, but verify this. 4. FBUs operate differently at each embassy/consulate. Some are excellent, others are understaffed and slow. You might want to email the Portugal FBU first to gauge their responsiveness. 5. If you do decide to file in the US, make an appointment well in advance - many offices are still backed up from the pandemic.

I had a HORRIBLE experience with the FBU in London! Took over 6 months to process my application and they kept losing my documents. Had to submit same papers 3 different times! Then they calculated my benefit wrong and I spent another 2 months fixing it. If I could do it over, I'd definitely have flown back to the States. The people at my old local office in Minnesota were always so helpful when I lived there.

I just went thru this last month! I'm in Argentina and was debating the same thing. Ended up using the FBU here and it wasn't terrible but not great either. Took exactly 11 weeks from my application date to approval. One thing to consider - if u go back to US to file, make sure you schedule appointment BEFORE you travel. I heard some SS offices are booked weeks or months in advance, especially in bigger cities.

As an additional consideration, remember that filing at 62 means taking a permanent reduction of about 30% compared to waiting until your Full Retirement Age (FRA). This reduction is especially important for expats to consider since international living can sometimes involve unexpected expenses. Have you run calculations to determine if early filing makes financial sense in your particular situation?

One more thing about FBU filing - they get SUPER confused if you have direct deposit to a US bank but live overseas. They kept asking for my Portuguese bank info even tho I just wanted it sent to my US account (which is totally allowed!). Had to explain this like 5 times lol

If you decide to file through the FBU, make sure you understand how international agreements affect your benefits. Portugal and the US have a Totalization Agreement that coordinates Social Security benefits. This means time worked in Portugal might count toward US eligibility requirements and vice versa. However, this can also trigger the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) if you receive a pension from Portugal, potentially reducing your US benefits. This is one area where speaking with an SSA representative who understands international agreements can be valuable.

Just a practical note - if you do decide to travel to the US to file, bring EVERY possible document you might need: original birth certificate, marriage certificate if applicable, all passports (current and expired), tax returns from the last few years, proof of foreign residency, and your complete work history. Better to have too much documentation than not enough!