I applied for SS benes 12/2019. I received a letter 12/24/2019 telling me to call a SS agent before 12/31. I called on 12/30 and got a message that the agent wouldn't be back until January 2020. There was no option to leave a message. I called SS and they didn't know anything about it, told me to make an appt. I got an appt. for 3/12/20. I went to the office twice, once waited 3 hrs, left starving, another on 02/19/20 and filled out Statement of Claimant or other Person. I waited 3 weeks for a letter I was to get, nothing. I went today 3/12 and the agent told me that I could either get my benefits, which aren't much, with less retro pay than what I was told, or file spousal benes and receive no retro benes. I've been led to understand by other agents that I could claim my personal benefits with retro benes, then claim spousal benefits after my spouse files for benes. The agent told me it was one or the other, and if I chose the spousal benes I could not get the retro benes. I'm so confused and aggravated. I've been treated poorly, and I get different info depending on the agent I speak with. I did not commit to anything, I think they are misleading me. Please help me.

Hi,

You don't mention your age, so I don't know if it's even possible for you to file for just one type of benefit. If you were born after January 1 1954, then whenever you file for either your own Social Security retirement benefits or for spousal benefits you'll be deemed to be filing for both benefits. Furthermore, if your husband isn't drawing his benefits then you couldn't qualify for spousal benefits at least until he files for his benefits.

Also, you can't be paid retroactive benefits for months prior to your month of filing if you apply prior to full retirement age (FRA). So, I don't have enough information to know what if any retroactive benefits you might be able to claim.

It sounds like you should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to explore and compare your options so that you can determine your best strategy for claiming benefits.

Best, Jerry