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Did Social Security Give Me Correct Information?

I have been receiving social security disability payments since September 2012. I will be turning age 66 FRA on June 1st, 2017 (DOB June 1,1951). I went to local SSA office to inquire about "voluntary suspension" of my benefits starting June 1st, 2017 when the my SS benefits become regular social security payments.
I was told I could not suspend my benefits and will have to continue taking my benefits. Was I given correct information? I thought once you reach FRA you can voluntary suspend your benefits to age 70.
Thank You

Hi,

No, it sounds like you were clearly misinformed by the person with whom you spoke. You can voluntarily suspend your benefits effective with the first month that they convert to regular retirement benefits, which will actually be May 2017 if you were born on June 1st. Social Security counts you as reaches your next age on the day before your birthday. Just to be clear, though, you won't be able to receive any other type of benefits (e.g. spouse's benefits) while your own benefits are in suspense.

If you want to suspend your benefits effective with May, you will need to submit your request no later than April 30 2017. You can insist on submitting a formal written request for suspension if they still tell you that you cannot do this. If that happens, request to speak with a technical expert, or the office manager. You may also want to print out and show them the last example in section A.1. of this section from Social Security's operations manual: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0202409110. If necessary, you can also contact your Congressperson's office for help.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Apr 1 2017 - 7:30am
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