Applying for Social Security, and Doing it While Abroad

Anyone that knows me, knows technology and I do not get along. I know, I know. We all have the stories, but mine have been verified too many times. I hand my phone to Shannon only to hear, “That’s just odd. Mine doesn’t do that.” Or, “I have no idea why yours doesn’t have that ability.” Phones, computers, gadgets of all kinds. If it has software, I’ll make it go nowhere.

When our hospital switched to computerized charting over a decade ago, I was unable to log onto the practice portion of the program. I signaled the appointed ‘Super User’ for assistance. Several minutes later, she said, “Try it now.” I looked her in the face and said, “You know this won’t end well.” I hit ENTER and the entire system crashed. The entire hospital’s EPIC charting program locked up, and announcements began over the intercom. Was it me? I choose to think so.

Now imagine me attempting to file for my Social Security retirement benefits online while in Italy!

Years ago, I created an account on the Social Security website, SSA.gov. Through that site I have been able to track their records of my contributions over the years; and even use their tool that estimates your possible dollar amount of benefits should you become disabled and unable to work or retire and stop working on your own. There are several different tools and tabs and helpful links.

A handful of years back, government websites began using log in programs. The two that can be used to access SSA.gov are ID.me and Login.gov. Set up an account with two factor authentication which is required, and now you can log onto the site and make an account with Social Security.

I began researching applying for SS benefits a few years back. What is the best age? For my age group, the earliest is age 62. The three categories are age 62 receives 70% of your accrued benefit, (see government voodoo math tables), age 67 you receive 100%. You can continue to ‘pad’ that amount until age 70, then it no longer increases, so there is no benefit in doing so. I chose age 62. Each person needs to consider many things, with Life Expectancy and Quality of Life in those advanced years being my main reasons. Do your own research and consult with a financial planner and/or accountant. This is too big of a life event to get wrong.

Back to applying online. It was actually very simple, even for me. It took me about 10-15 minutes and was the typical step by step with the ability to save and log back in later options. I had to look up the dates and information about my ex-wife since we had been married over 10 years. There was even an option when reviewing your work prior to submitting to state whether some items were estimates or to the best of your knowledge. Most of the information is simply your address, email, phone, D.O.B, etc. Another section is your banking institution, routing number and account number you want your benefit to be deposited in.

All in all, it was a no stress experience applying. Now, according to their website, and other financial websites, it may take anywhere from 6 weeks to six months for it to be reviewed, approved, and my checks to begin arriving! Although I got an email stating I should hear something in 30 days. There is a pathway for checking the progress of your claim too.

Yes. The process of applying was simple. Begin your research now and keep an eye on your benefit numbers. Use their website to plan ahead. Once you reach the age you have planned for retirement or payments, go online and submit your claim. Then sit back, relax, and wait while the wheels of government grind through it for insert some random number of days, weeks, months.

Or, you can make an appointment at your nearest Social Security Office and begin the process there if you are in the US. Which has its own timeline and process.