Social Security interview prep for overseas applicant - FBU Manila phone appointment coming up

For my FBU Manila phone interview last year, they primarily wanted to verify all the info in my application. Have digital copies of ALL your important documents - birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce papers (if applicable), and your most recent tax returns. They'll email you a list of specific documents they need before the interview. The FBU process is notoriously slow, so make sure you have reliable phone service wherever you'll be overseas. My interview was supposed to be 15 minutes but lasted 45 because they had questions about my work history in the Philippines. Oh, and write down your entire work history with dates before the call - they'll likely go through that in detail. Good luck!

my wife had her fbu call last month they just asked same stuff thats on the application nothing tricky but MAKE SURE UR PHONE WORKS OVERSEAS!!!! she missed first call had to reschedule took another 2 months to get new appointment

I processed my retirement benefits through FBU Singapore (similar to Manila) in 2023. Here's what you need to prepare: 1. The FBU will actually email you a list of required documents about 1-2 weeks before your call. They typically request: - Original birth certificate (or certified copy) - Marriage certificate(s) - Divorce decree(s) if applicable - Most recent tax return - Proof of citizenship if naturalized - Bank information for direct deposit 2. For the phone appointment, they'll verify your identity first, then review your earnings record and benefit calculation. They'll confirm your filing strategy and payment preferences. The call typically takes 30-45 minutes. Regarding notarized copies - the FBU usually requests you scan original documents rather than notarized copies. However, since you're traveling, having notarized copies as backups is wise. Finally, ensure you have reliable phone service for your appointment. FBU appointment slots are limited, and rescheduling often means significant delays.

They make it so complicated!!! I had regular SS appointment (not overseas) and they canceled TWICE without telling me. Wasted hours waiting for calls that never came. System is broken.

For my FBU Manila interview last year, I was traveling in Vietnam when they called. Here's what I learned: 1. You absolutely need stable internet/phone service. Consider getting a portable WiFi device if you'll be in remote areas. They called exactly on schedule. 2. They'll email a document checklist about 10 days before the appointment. For me, it included birth certificate, passport, tax returns (last 3 years), marriage certificate, and direct deposit info. I didn't need notarized copies - just clear scans of originals. 3. The interview focused on verifying my work history (dates and employers), confirming my application choices, and discussing payment options. One tip - I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) before my application to actually talk to a live SSA representative and pre-check if my documentation was sufficient. Saved me a ton of headaches since they helped me identify issues before my formal application. Check out their video demo: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The FBU process is more straightforward than people think, just be organized and available for the call!

i applied through manila FBU in 2023 and they never sent me a document list!?!!? had to scramble during the call to find everything. interviewer was annoyed. ended up having to submit stuff after the call and delayed my benefits by 3 MONTHS!!! make sure you call them BEFORE your appointment if you don't get a list. dont assume anything with SSA. NOTHING. and yes get notarized copies of EVERYTHING because i had to.

I worked for SSA for 28 years before retiring. For overseas applicants working with FBUs, the process is slightly different than domestic applications. The phone interview serves several purposes: 1. Verification of identity and eligibility 2. Review of earnings record accuracy 3. Discussion of benefit options and potential maximization strategies 4. Processing of any supplemental documentation Regarding documents, you should have: - Original birth certificate or passport - Social Security card - Marriage certificate(s) - Divorce decree(s) if applicable - Most recent tax returns - Banking information for direct deposit - Complete work history with dates and employers The FBU should send you a specific document request before your interview. If you're traveling, inform them in advance about your circumstances. For maximum preparation, review your earnings statement on my.ssa.gov before the interview to ensure all your work history is accurately reflected.

tell them your overseas +++ they HATE surprises lol

Just following up - did you manage to get through to the FBU Manila before your trip? Any updates on the document list situation?