Update: We tried using Firefox instead of Chrome and going through the password reset process rather than trying to create a new login, but we're still getting stuck. I think we're going to have to try scheduling an in-person appointment. Does anyone know if I would be able to go with her to help explain things to the SSA representative? She can communicate fine in person when she can see someone's face, but sometimes misses details.

I work with accessibility services and wanted to mention a few additional options that might help your sister. The SSA has a specific accommodation request process - she can call 1-800-772-1213 and ask to speak with someone about ADA accommodations for her hearing impairment. They can sometimes waive certain verification steps or provide alternative methods. Also, some local libraries have assistive technology centers that include TTY equipment or video relay services that might help with phone calls if needed. The reference librarians are usually great at helping people navigate government websites too. One more thing - if the in-person visit doesn't work out, you might also try contacting your congressional representative's office. They often have staff who specialize in helping constituents with federal agency issues like this.

My friend said u can also reduce ur WEP if u keep working after u start getting SS??? Is that true? I'm so confused with all these rules!

Here's a helpful resource for finding the substantial earnings amounts by year - you can check the SSA's official publication "Social Security & Medicare Tax Rates" or search for "substantial earnings WEP" on ssa.gov. They have a table showing the amounts going back decades. For example, 1985 was $5,850, 1995 was $11,325, 2005 was $16,725, etc. It's definitely worth checking all your years because even part-time work might have qualified! Also, don't forget that if you're still working in covered employment, every dollar you earn now in 2025 that gets you over $31,275 will count as another year of substantial earnings and potentially reduce your WEP penalty by 5%.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I'm going to try using the WEP calculator on the SSA website, but I think we'll also need to talk directly with an agent to get our specific situation figured out. It's frustrating that something as important as retirement planning has to be this complicated. I'll update once we get our actual calculation from SSA.

As someone who recently navigated this exact situation, I can confirm your understanding is correct but there are a few additional nuances to consider. My husband was also affected by WEP with a similar work history (20 years government, 25 years private sector). One thing that caught us off guard was that the WEP reduction can actually change over time based on your pension amount. If your husband's pension increases due to COLAs on the pension side, it could affect the WEP calculation since the reduction is capped at 50% of the pension amount. Also, make sure you understand how this impacts your survivor benefits planning. If something happens to your husband, your survivor benefit would be based on what he was actually receiving (the WEP-reduced amount), not what his benefit would have been without WEP. I'd strongly recommend getting a formal benefit estimate from SSA before making any final decisions about timing. The difference between filing at 67 vs 70 might not be as significant as you originally calculated once WEP is factored in.

Don't forget about the family maximum limit! That can really mess up your expectations if multiple people are collecting on one record. Ask the rep specifically if the family maximum applies in your case.

Your strategy sounds solid! As someone who recently went through a similar decision process, I'd suggest writing down your key questions beforehand so you don't forget anything during the call. Also, don't be surprised if you get pushback from the SSA rep - some aren't familiar with this strategy. One thing that helped me was asking for a written estimate of both scenarios (your plan vs. taking survivor benefits first) so I could compare the lifetime totals. The SSA can provide benefit estimates for different claiming strategies. Also, since you mentioned being anxious about the decision - remember that if something changes in your situation later, you generally have 12 months to withdraw your application and try a different approach (though you'd have to pay back any benefits received). It's not as permanent as it feels! Good luck with your appointment next week!

One last thing to consider: if your ex-spouse passes away before you claim benefits, the rules change. As a surviving divorced spouse, you could claim survivor benefits as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled). Survivor benefits are different from ex-spousal benefits. Not something to hope for, of course, but important to know in case that situation arises.

I just went through this exact process last year! I was 61 when I started researching and had to wait until 62 just like you. One tip that really helped me: about 3-4 months before your 62nd birthday, you can actually start the application process. Don't wait until the day you turn 62 because processing can take time. Also, since you mentioned struggling financially, look into whether your state has a Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). It's specifically for people 55+ with lower incomes and can provide part-time work and training while you're waiting to be eligible for benefits. I found it through my local Area Agency on Aging and it really helped bridge the gap. The waiting is hard, but you're so close! Just two and a half more years and you'll have that extra financial security.