Need help with direct deposit for Social Security spousal benefits after GPO repeal

You're getting conflicting information because SSA is still figuring out the implementation details of the GPO repeal themselves. I went through a similar situation when my wife's benefits were suspended under the old GPO rules, though your case is now complicated by the repeal timeframe. Here's what worked for me: call again and specifically ask to speak with a "Title II Technical Expert" who handles spousal benefits under these conditions. Explain you need to have the direct deposit information entered proactively to ensure prompt payment once your case is reviewed. The front-line reps often don't have the authority or knowledge to handle these specialized cases.

My mom had same problem last year (not with GPO but diff issue) and SSA kept saying they couldnt add bank info until benefits started but then took FOREVER to get first check! super annoying

I work as a benefits coordinator for retirees, and the GPO repeal has created a unique situation for many public employees. What you're experiencing is happening to thousands of people right now. The SSA systems weren't designed to handle this type of large-scale change quickly. The representative was technically correct - their system usually doesn't allow direct deposit entry until benefits are actively being paid. However, there is a workaround: you can submit Form SSA-1199 (Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form) with a copy of a voided check to your local office. Include your Social Security number and a note explaining this is for pending spousal benefits following the GPO repeal. This method bypasses the online restrictions and ensures your information is in the system when payments begin processing.

i tried calling ssa about my gpo situation last week and was on hold for 3 HOURS before i got disconnected!!! so frustrating. has anyone found a way to actually talk to a human being there?

I'm dealing with the exact same situation - 31 years as a teacher, applied for spousal benefits in Nov 2023, and now waiting on the GPO repeal implementation. I called twice about the direct deposit issue. First rep said exactly what you heard - can't enter banking info until benefits are active. Second rep was more knowledgeable and explained that for those of us caught in the GPO repeal transition, we should submit Form SSA-1199 to our local office WITH our banking info AND go to the local office in person within the next 30 days to ensure they have everything needed for prompt payment when they start processing our cases. Apparently there's a special processing group handling the GPO cases and having your direct deposit info in the system now will flag your file for faster review.

whats GPO? is that different from regular ss benefits?

Just an update on this topic - I spoke with an SSA representative yesterday about a similar issue. They confirmed that for GPO-affected spouses, they are now accepting direct deposit information even before benefits resume. You need to specifically tell the representative that you're calling about "direct deposit setup for a GPO-affected spousal benefit claim" and they should transfer you to someone who can handle it. The key is getting to the right department. Also, they mentioned they're processing these claims based on application date, so since you applied in late 2023, you should be in one of the earlier processing groups.

Don't wait!!! My sister-in-law was in your EXACT situation (teacher for 29 years, GPO affected) and she listened when they told her to "just wait" - BIG MISTAKE! She ended up waiting THREE EXTRA MONTHS for her first payment because of the direct deposit issue! Go to your local office IN PERSON with your ID, a voided check, and your case number. Insist they document in your file that you provided direct deposit info. The website is RIGHT and the phone rep was WRONG. With this GPO repeal affecting so many people, SSA is overwhelmed and giving out incorrect information.

I know this isn't exactly what you asked, but make sure you understand how the GPO repeal implementation timeline works. SSA announced they'll process cases in phases, with the first payments expected to go out in late January 2025. Those who already applied (like you) are in the first group. But they also said benefits won't be retroactive to the repeal date - they'll start when SSA processes your case. So getting your direct deposit set up is definitely important to avoid further delays once they get to your case!