I am a Canadian citizen living in the United States who is nearing retirement age. I became disabled and applied for social security benefits approximately six months ago. My disability application was sent to a "totalization" office to ensure it is compliant with the US-Canadian treaty on social benefits. This additional step has resulted in an even longer waiting period to determine whether I am eligible for disability benefits (they estimate two years). In the meantime, I would like to file for my Canadian pension benefits, which I will be eligible to receive in approximately nine months (at the age of 65).

It is my understanding that one collecting a government pension is not eligible for disability. If I apply for my Canadian pension will social security deny my disability benefits because of my pension application?

Hi,

No, receipt of a Canadian pension would not make you ineligible for Social Security disability benefits. However, it could cause your Social Security disability or retirement benefit rate to be lower due to the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) (https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10045.pdf). There are too many variables involved for me to be able to tell you how much of an effect it might have, if any. You may want to consider using our maximization software to help you determine your best course of action.

Best, Jerry