Social Security retirement application stuck 'processing' for 60+ days - normal or problem?

Mine took 75 days to process last summer! The whole system is BROKEN. I applied online too, everything straightforward like yours. Called MULTIPLE times and got different answers each time - first "it's normal wait time" then "there's a backlog" then "we need more information" but nobody could tell me WHAT information! Finally got approved but they never explained the delay. The SSA is completely overwhelmed right now.

While 30 days is the SSA's target processing time, delays of 45-60 days have become increasingly common since 2024. Several factors might be causing this: staffing shortages at SSA field offices, higher application volumes as more baby boomers reach retirement age, and periodic system upgrades that temporarily slow processing. You mention this is a straightforward claim on your own record at Full Retirement Age, which should be fairly simple. A couple things I'd recommend: 1. Check your my Social Security account to see if there are any messages or requests for additional documentation 2. Try calling early in the morning (right when they open) or late in the day (within an hour of closing) when call volumes are typically lower 3. If you're close to a field office, consider scheduling an in-person appointment However, at 60 days, you're definitely justified in following up more assertively.

yes mine took 68 days last month. they didnt even backpay me for the months i missed! had to call and argue with them for another 3 weeks to get that fixed too

This started happening a lot more after the pandemic. I work as a benefits counselor, and I've seen processing times consistently running 45-60 days for even straightforward retirement claims. The important thing is to make sure there isn't something specific holding up YOUR application. A few common issues that can cause delays: - Discrepancies in your earnings record - Missing or incomplete quarters of coverage - Name discrepancies between SSA records and your application - Recent earnings that haven't been processed The most efficient way to check on your specific application status is to speak with an SSA representative. However, as you've experienced, getting through on the phone can be nearly impossible with current call volumes.

I was in the exact same situation last month - stuck at 63 days with no updates! I tried calling SSA multiple times but couldn't get through the endless hold times. Then I discovered a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an SSA agent in about 20 minutes instead of hours on hold. They basically call SSA for you and then connect you when they reach an agent. Once I finally talked to someone, they found my application was just sitting there waiting for a final review. The agent expedited it and I was approved within a week. You can check them out at claimyr.com - they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU It was totally worth it to avoid more weeks of wondering what was happening with my application!

did u send in your birth certificate???? they wont process without it even tho website says they dont need it sometimes. happened to my sister.

Once you're able to speak with an SSA representative, request that they check for any "development holds" on your application. This is SSA terminology for when they need additional information but haven't necessarily communicated this to you. Also, your first payment will typically be made the month after approval, so even after approval there might be a waiting period before you receive benefits. If your application is approved, you should receive any back payments you're entitled to from your entitlement date. For future reference, it's generally best to apply about 3-4 months before you want benefits to begin, precisely because of these potential delays.

I got mine in exactly 28 days last month, so not everyone is experiencing delays. Maybe it depends on your regional office or something? I applied online too, just regular retirement benefit at 66+4 months.

Update: I finally reached an agent this morning after trying the early morning call trick. Turns out there WAS an issue - they needed verification of my last employer's pension plan information, but the letter requesting this was sent to my old address even though I updated it online! The agent resent the request and expedited my application. She said once they receive the pension information, it should be approved within 7-10 days. Thank you all for your help and suggestions!