How long for Social Security retirement application approval? Applied 7 weeks ago - still waiting

Yes, unfortunately SS retirement applications are taking MUCH longer than they used to. I filed my retirement application in January and didn't get approved until early May - almost 4 months! The 4-6 week estimate on their website is completely outdated. When I finally got through to someone on the phone, they told me they're severely understaffed and applications are backlogged by months.

4 MONTHS?? That's terrifying! I've already given notice at work based on my retirement plans. Did they at least backpay you from your entitlement date once approved?

dont panic yet. my wifes took 9 weeks exactly and mine took 11 weeks. they backdated payments to when we were eligible. the website is never accurate about timelines lol

That's somewhat reassuring. Did you do anything special to get it processed or just wait it out?

just waited. tried calling but gave up after being on hold for 90 mins twice

I work as a benefits counselor, and I can tell you that current processing times for retirement benefits are running 8-12 weeks on average. This can vary based on your specific circumstances:1. If you've worked for non-covered employers (government jobs with pension), expect longer times2. If you have earnings in the year of filing that need verification3. If your application has any discrepancies that require manual reviewThe good news is that once approved, benefits will be paid retroactively to your entitlement month. So even with delays, you won't lose any money you're entitled to.One suggestion: try calling the SSA first thing when they open (7am in most locations). The hold times are significantly shorter early in the morning.

Thank you for the detailed explanation. I did work for a state government for 4 years in my 30s, but that was decades ago. Maybe that's slowing things down? I'll try the early morning call tomorrow.

After struggling with the same issue last year, I found a service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual SSA representative in under 20 minutes. It basically holds your place in line so you don't have to stay on hold for hours. You can see how it works in their demo video: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puUI was skeptical at first, but it worked great and I was able to check my application status and ask specific questions. The agent told me exactly what was causing my delay (they needed additional wage verification from an old employer) and what I could do to help move it along. Definitely worth it when you're anxious about your benefits and can't get through on your own.

This sounds promising! I'd never heard of this service before. Did they give you accurate information that helped resolve your issue?

Yes! The SSA rep I reached through Claimyr was able to see exactly where my application was in the process and what was causing the delay. In my case, they needed additional information about my earnings from a previous year. Once I provided that documentation, my application was approved within 10 days. Just having someone actually look at my file and tell me what was happening made a huge difference for my peace of mind.

My brother waited 3 months and turned out they lost his application even though he got a confirmation number!!!!! MAKE SURE you have all your confirmation emails and numbers saved!!!! The SSA is completely incompetent these days.

That's concerning but not typical. While there are certainly delays in processing applications, the SSA rarely

i filed for my retirement benefits back in february and just got approved last week. what i did was contact my congressional representative's office after waiting 10 weeks. they have caseworkers who can inquire with ssa directly. my application was suddenly processed within a week after they got involved! might be worth trying if you continue waiting.

I never thought of contacting my congressional rep! That's a great idea if it continues dragging on. Thanks for the suggestion.

Also make sure you check your MySocialSecurity messages regularly. Sometimes they request additional information but don't call or email you about it - the notice only appears in your online message center. If you miss these requests, your application just sits there with no progress.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I feel a bit better knowing this is unfortunately normal right now. I'm going to try calling early tomorrow morning, and if I can't get through, I might try that Claimyr service someone mentioned. If I'm still waiting after another 2-3 weeks, I'll contact my congressional representative's office. I'll update once I hear something!

good luck! the waiting is the worst part