Social Security won't tell me my retirement benefit amount before I switch from survivor benefits - how to compare?

Unfortunately, this is one of the more frustrating aspects of SSA's system. I had a similar experience last year. The solution I found was to use their online calculator to get a rough estimate first, but for the exact amount, I finally reached a knowledgeable rep who explained I could file a "protective filing statement" rather than a full application. This preserves your filing date without fully committing to switching benefits. When I kept getting disconnected like you, I tried using Claimyr.com to get through - it actually worked and I spoke to someone in about 20 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU. The rep I spoke with was able to look up both benefit amounts and gave me a comparison. Worth a try!

They always do this!! I swear SS is designed to be confusing on purpose. My sister got the same runaround and ended up just applying for her own benefits without knowing if it would be better or worse than her survivors. Turned out she lost about $180/month by switching!!! No way to get back on survivors after that. The whole system is a joke.

This is actually a common issue, but there is a solution. What you need to ask for specifically is a "PEBES" (Post Entitlement Benefit Estimate Statement). When you call, use those exact words. Some SSA reps don't know about this option or incorrectly tell people it's not available. The PEBES will show you what your own retirement benefit would be without requiring you to apply. Alternatively, you can schedule an in-person appointment at your local SSA office. Take your most recent tax returns with you. The face-to-face appointments often yield better results than phone calls because the representatives can spend more time with your case. One important thing to note: if you were born before January 2, 1954, you might have been eligible for a restricted application to receive only your spousal benefit while letting your own retirement benefit grow until age 70. However, this option was phased out for people born on or after that date.

Have you tried using the SSA's online calculator? It won't give you the exact amount you'd receive, but it can give you a decent estimate based on your earnings history. You can find it at ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/estimator.html Also, when did you receive the letter? If it was a "COLA Notice" (Cost of Living Adjustment), these sometimes include language about potentially being eligible for higher benefits on your own record without actually comparing the amounts.

my mom had the same problem last year!!! she ended up going in person to the social security office and they finally told her the amounts. bring all your papers with you when you go tho because they asked her for a bunch of stuff she didnt have and she had to go back a second time. good luck!!!!

I encountered this exact situation when transitioning from widow's benefits to retirement benefits. Here's what worked for me: 1. Request your earnings record through the SSA website or by calling and specifically asking for that (not your benefit amount) 2. Once you have your earnings record, use the detailed calculator available at ssa.gov/OACT/anypia/anypia.html (it's more accurate than the quick calculator) 3. Input your earnings history exactly as shown on your record 4. Compare the estimated retirement benefit with your current survivor benefit This approach will give you a very close approximation without having to apply. The difference between the estimate and the actual amount is typically minimal. Alternatively, you can make an appointment at your local field office specifically to discuss your options. Request a "retirement benefit estimate while receiving survivor benefits" when you schedule the appointment. Be prepared to wait, but they can provide this information without requiring an application.

I hate to say this but I think they WANT you to apply without knowing! My friend ended up losing money when she switched and now she's stuck. The whole thing seems designed to confuse us. Have you tried calling your local office directly instead of the main number? Sometimes they're more helpful.

I want to add an important clarification since I see some confusion in other responses. If you're already receiving survivor benefits and switch to your own retirement benefits, you CANNOT switch back to survivor benefits later. This is a permanent decision. This is why getting accurate information before making the switch is so critical. However, if you're receiving your own retirement benefits first, you CAN switch to survivor benefits later if your spouse passes away. The rules are asymmetrical. Also, the maximum retroactive benefits for retirement claims is 6 months, and only if you're past Full Retirement Age. So even if you discover that your own benefit would have been higher all along, you can only receive a maximum of 6 months of retroactive payments for the difference.

This is EXACTLY why people hate dealing with SS!!! They make everything so complicated and then refuse to explain things clearly. I bet half the people who call in don't even know what questions to ask. And getting disconnected when you ask for a supervisor? Classic SS move right there.