A) It seems like you’ve been having trouble reaching the Casa Grande Social Security Office. Let me provide you with the correct phone number and additional information.
The Casa Grande Social Security Office is located at 1637 E Monument Plaza Circle, Suite 2, Casa Grande, AZ 85122. You can reach them at the following phone numbers:
- Phone Number: (877) 405-0403
- Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-772-1213
Their office hours are as follows:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
If you prefer to apply over the phone, you can call the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
For additional information, you can visit the official Social Security website. I recommend calling the Casa Grande office ahead of time to verify their hours of operation. Hopefully, this helps you get in touch with them more effectively!
]]>A) That’s correct! Here’s how you and your wife can stop withholding taxes from your Social Security benefits:
- Form W-4V:The IRS Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request, is the correct form to use. You can download a copy from the IRS website IRS form W-4V:https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw4v.pdf.
- Complete the Forms:Fill out a separate W-4V form for each of you. On the form, clearly mark the box on line 7 that states “Stop withholding.”
- Mail the Forms:Send the completed W-4V forms by mail to your local Social Security office. You can find the address for your local office by using the SSA’s office locator tool Social Security office locator:https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp.
Important Notes:
- Consider Tax Implications:While choosing to withhold no taxes now might seem convenient, remember you’ll still owe taxes on your Social Security benefits come tax time. It might be wise to consult with a tax advisor to see if stopping withholding is the right decision for your situation.
- Future Withholding:If you decide later that you want to have taxes withheld again, you can simply submit a new W-4V form to the Social Security Administration specifying your desired withholding percentage.
By following these steps, you and your wife can stop the withholding of taxes from your Social Security benefits. Remember to carefully consider the tax implications before making this decision.
]]>A) The Social Security Administration (SSA) likely wouldn’t keep a copy of a State Department letter in your file. They are focused on verifying your work history and earnings to determine your benefit eligibility.
Here’s why the SSA wouldn’t keep the letter and how to get a new copy:
- SSA Focus:The SSA primarily deals with work history and earnings verification. They likely wouldn’t need the State Department letter for your benefits.
- State Department Documents:The State Department would be the appropriate agency to hold onto documents they receive.
Here’s how to get a new copy of the State Department letter:
- Contact the State Department:Reach out to the State Department directly and inquire about how to obtain a copy of the letter they received from you. They might have an online request system, require a written request, or offer the option to visit an office in person (depending on the document type).
- State Where You Applied:Specify the state department office you submitted the document to when making your inquiry. This will help them locate the specific document you need.
Here are some resources to help you contact the State Department:
- State Department Website:Visit the U.S. Department of State website (https://www.state.gov/) and look for a section on “Contact Us” or “Obtaining Records.”
- National Archives:If the document was related to passports or citizenship, it might be stored with the National Archives. You can find their website athttps://www.archives.gov/.
By contacting the State Department directly, you should be able to obtain a new copy of the letter you need.
]]>A) There’s no single “best” month to retire and claim Social Security. The ideal time depends on your individual circ*mstances like:
- Your desired monthly benefit amount:Delaying your retirement past your full retirement age (FRA) increases your monthly benefit amount.This is because you earn delayed retirement credits which boost your benefit.
- Your financial needs:If you need the income now,you can start receiving benefits as early as age 62.However,this permanently reduces your monthly benefit amount.
- Your health:If you have a shorter life expectancy,you might benefit from starting benefits earlier to receive more total payments.
- Your other sources of income:If you have a pension,retirement savings,or a spouse’s income,you might have more flexibility in when to claim Social Security.
Here’s a breakdown of some factors to consider for different months to claim:
- Early (Age 62):You’ll receive the lowest possible monthly benefit amount for the rest of your life.This might be suitable if you have a healthy nest egg or other sources of income and need the money now.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA):(Varies between 66-67 depending on your birth year) You’ll receive your full retirement benefit amount.This is the most common choice for most retirees.
- Between FRA and 70:You’ll receive a slightly higher monthly benefit than your FRA amount due to delayed retirement credits.
- Age 70:This is the latest you can delay claiming benefits.You’ll receive the maximum possible monthly benefit amount for the rest of your life.
Here are some resources that can help you decide when to retire and claim Social Security:
- Social Security Administration Retirement Planner:https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirementThis website helps you estimate your retirement benefits based on your earnings history and different claiming ages.
- AARP Retirement Calculator:https://www.aarp.org/tools/This calculator considers factors like your Social Security benefits,savings,and life expectancy to help you plan for retirement.
By considering your unique situation and using these resources, you can make an informed decision about the best time for you to retire and claim Social Security.
]]>Q) I have no other source of income and heard that I may be eligible or my kids would be for additional Social Security benefits up to an additional 50% for the 1st and possibly 25% for each additional child that we’d receive to monthly help us out. I\s this true and if so, how would I apply and how would it work?
Aldo, I pay my mom $400/month rent and we are just renters (she occasionally help with then totalities and I do same with her food on occasion. She’s been clsaiminmg my 4 children every year as her dependents and I told her I want to claim them this year \and she said she’d kick me out if I tried. What are my options?
A) Here’s how to address the different parts of your situation:
Social Security Benefits for Your Children:
The information you heard is partially true. Your children may be eligible for benefits based on your disability income, but it’s not an automatic 50% increase for the first child and 25% for each additional one. Here’s what applies:
- Child’s Benefits:Children of a Social Security disability recipient may qualify for benefits on their parent’s record. The benefit amount is a percentage of the parent’s benefit, typically up to 50% for the first child and 30% for each additional child, with a maximum family benefit.
- To find out:Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their websitehttps://www.ssa.gov/ssito check eligibility and apply.
Your Mother Claiming Your Children as Dependents:
- You have the right to claim your children:Since you are the primary caregiver and provide more than half their financial support, you have the legal right to claim them as dependents on your tax return, not your mother.
- Resolving the situation:Explain this to your mother calmly and rationally. Show her resources from the IRS that confirm your right to claim them (reference IRS Publication 929).
- Mediation as an option:If discussions go poorly, consider mediation to reach a solution with your mother. Many communities offer free or low-cost mediation services.
Your Housing Situation:
- Eviction threats:It’s illegal for your mother to evict you without proper notice (typically 30-60 days depending on your location). Even with rent payments, you likely have some tenant rights.
- Domestic violence laws:If you feel threatened or unsafe due to her eviction threats, consider contacting a local domestic violence hotline or shelter for support and legal resources.
- Alternative housing:Explore options like low-income housing or finding a new roommate situation if staying with your mother becomes untenable.
Here are some resources that may be helpful:
- Social Security Administration:1-800-772-1213 orhttps://www.ssa.gov/ssi
- IRS Publication 929:https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p929.pdf(for tax dependency information)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline:1-800-799-7233
A) Unfortunately, I cannot directly track your Social Security card application. However, I can offer you a few ways to check on the status yourself:
1. Check online:
- If you created a my Social Security accounthttps://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/, you can try checking the application status there.
2. Call the SSA:
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a toll-free number you can call to check the application status: 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday between 7 am and 7 pm EDT.
3. Visit your local SSA office:
- You can visit your local SSA office and inquire about the status of your application in person. You can find your closest office by entering your zip code on the SSA websitehttps://www.ssa.gov/locator/.
Here’s some additional information that might be helpful:
- It typically takes 7-10 business days to receive your Social Security card after your application is processed, so waiting 21 days does warrant a follow-up.
- Have your A-number and Receipt Number handy when calling or visiting the SSA office.
A) The processing time for a replacement Social Security card for a U.S. citizen can vary depending on how you apply:
Online: This is the fastest option if you live in one of the participating states listed on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card. In those states, you can request a replacement through your personal my Social Security account. Once your application is processed, you should receive your card within 7-10 business days.
Mail-in: If you cannot apply online or do not live in a participating state, you can complete an application form and mail it in with the required documents. In this case, it usually takes 2-4 weeks to process the application and return your documents, after which your card will be mailed separately.
In-person: Visiting your local Social Security office can expedite the process if you need your card quickly. Once your application is verified and processed, you should receive your card on the spot.
Here are some additional factors that can affect processing times:
- Completeness of your application:Ensure all information and documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Current workload at the SSA:Processing times can be longer during peak periods.
- Verification of documents:If the SSA needs to verify your documents,it can take additional time.
It’s important to note that these are estimated timelines, and the actual processing time may vary. You can track the status of your application online through your my Social Security account if you applied online.
Here are some helpful resources:
- Social Security Administration website:https://www.ssa.gov/number-card
- How to Replace a Social Security Card:https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-to-do-if-you-lose-your-social-security-card/
- Learn what documents you will need to get a Social Security Card:https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/ss5doc.htm
A) I’m unable to access or manage your Social Security information or balances. However, I can provide some guidance on why your February deposit might be less than what you received last month and suggest ways to get more information:
Possible reasons for a decreased deposit:
- Automatic adjustments:Social Security benefits are subject to automatic adjustments throughout the year based on the cost of living (COLA).This year’s COLA increase was 8.7%,which could explain a decrease in your monthly benefit.
- Medicare Part B premiums:If you choose to enroll in Medicare Part B (medical insurance),the premiums are deducted from your monthly Social Security benefit.These premiums can change year-to-year,potentially impacting your benefit amount.
- Taxes:Depending on your income and other factors,some federal taxes may be withheld from your Social Security benefits.
- Other deductions:If you have outstanding debts,such as federal student loans or back taxes,they may be garnished from your Social Security benefits,reducing your monthly deposit.
- Benefit type:Different types of Social Security benefits have different calculation methods and maximum amounts,which could contribute to a variation in monthly deposits.
- Reporting errors:In rare cases,there may be a reporting error affecting your benefit amount.
Getting more information:
- Review your online statement:The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers an online portal where you can view your statements,including benefit amounts,deductions,and upcoming deposits.Sign in to your account athttps://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.
- Contact the SSA:You can reach the SSA by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local office to speak with a representative.Explain your situation and ask for clarification on your February deposit amount.
Important note: I cannot access your personal information or provide specific details about your Social Security benefits. Always rely on official sources from the SSA for accurate and up-to-date information.
]]>A) I understand you’d like to check on your Social Security benefits, I don’t have access to your personal information or financial accounts.
However, there are several secure ways you can access your Social Security benefits information yourself:
- Create or log in to your secure “my Social Security” account:This online portal allows you to view your earnings history,estimated benefit amounts,and manage your benefits preferences.Visit the official Social Security Administration website athttps://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/and click “Create an account” if you haven’t already.
- Call the Social Security Administration:You can speak to a representative directly by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.Be prepared to provide your Social Security number and other identifying information.
- Visit a local Social Security office:You can find the nearest Social Security office by using the SSA’s office locator tool athttps://www.ssa.gov/locator/.
It’s important to be cautious when sharing your Social Security information online or over the phone. Only provide your information to trusted sources like the Social Security Administration itself.
]]>A) Whether you need an appointment to drop off an IRMAA appeal form depends on how you want to submit it. Here are your options:
1. In person:
- Most Social Security offices do not require appointments for dropping off documents.You can simply walk in during their regular business hours.However,it’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm,especially if you’re visiting during peak hours or have concerns about wait times.
2. By mail:
- You can mail your IRMAA appeal form to your local Social Security office.The address should be printed on the form itself or on the instructions that came with it.Make sure to send your appeal by certified mail with return receipt requested so you have documentation that it was delivered.
3. Online:
- You can submit your IRMAA appeal form electronically through the Social Security Administration’s website:https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.This is the fastest and most convenient option,and you’ll receive a confirmation email once your appeal is submitted.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- No matter how you submit your appeal,make sure to keep a copy for your records.
- The sooner you submit your appeal,the sooner the Social Security Administration can start processing it.
- You can find more information about IRMAA appeals on the Social Security Administration’s website:https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/lower-irmaa
I hope this information helps!
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