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Challenges with Social Security Spousal Benefits: What to Do Next

full retirement age (fra) hey marc! spousal benefits Jun 13, 2024

My sister was a stay-at-home mom. She has planned to take half of her husband’s SS benefit when she got to FRA. You told me she should go to the SS Office. She did that today and they informed her that they have not done spousal benefits for 3 years. They told her to sign up on her own online and someone from SS will call within 15 days to review her options. The rep told my sister that when they see that she’s applied they will determine if she qualifies for a spousal benefit. She even checked with her Supervisor?

It's frustrating to hear about the experience your sister had at the Social Security office. Unfortunately, the service at many Social Security offices has been lacking, and it seems your sister encountered misinformation.

Here’s what she can do next:

  1. Inaccurate Information:

    • Spousal Benefits Are Still Available: Despite what your sister was told, spousal benefits are indeed still available. It’s concerning that the Social Security representative claimed otherwise, even after checking with a supervisor. Your sister should be entitled to apply for spousal benefits if she qualifies, and this should not have been dismissed.
  2. Next Steps:

    • Contact Congressional Office: Given the poor service she received, I recommend that your sister visit her local Congressional office for assistance. Elected representatives often have staff who can help constituents navigate issues with federal agencies like the Social Security Administration (SSA). They can inquire into her claim and advocate on her behalf to ensure it is handled properly.
    • Follow Up with SSA: While waiting for assistance from the Congressional office, your sister should proceed with the online application as instructed. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and follow up to ensure that her eligibility for spousal benefits is properly reviewed.
  3. Social Security Discussions:

    • Open Forums and Updates: We will discuss this issue in our upcoming Social Security Open Forums and Updates. It’s essential for everyone to be aware of potential challenges when dealing with the SSA and to know what steps to take if they encounter similar issues.

In summary, your sister's best course of action is to seek help from her local Congressional office, as they can often expedite and clarify issues with the SSA. I’m here to support you both through this process, and we’ll continue to address these concerns in our forums. Let me know if you need further assistance or have any additional questions!

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.

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