I am both a Canadian & US citizen with years of substantial earnings in both Canada and USA. I believe my situation is covered by the Canada – US Social Security Agreement and want to apply for early social security at age 62 early next year. I am not sure of the best way to apply given my personal situation and whether I need to fill out Social Security form SSA 2490 – BK or not. Hoping to have a consultation with you folks. I live in the state of Washington. Look forward to hearing from you, thanks so much!
Given your dual citizenship and years of substantial earnings in both Canada and the U.S., your situation is indeed covered by the Canada-U.S. Social Security Agreement. Here’s how you can proceed with your Social Security application and what you need to know:
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Applying for U.S. Social Security Benefits:
- Local SSA Office: You should apply for your U.S. Social Security benefits by making an appointment at your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. You can choose to file either over the phone or in person by speaking directly with a Claims Specialist. This ensures that your specific situation is properly understood and addressed.
- Form SSA-2490-BK: If you’re applying for benefits under the Canada-U.S. Social Security Agreement, you may need to fill out Form SSA-2490-BK, which is used to claim benefits under a totalization agreement. This form helps determine eligibility for U.S. benefits using your Canadian earnings credits. The Claims Specialist you speak with will guide you on whether this form is necessary based on your individual case.
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Applying for Canadian Benefits:
- File in Canada: To apply for your Canadian benefits, you will need to file through the appropriate Canadian government office. The process for applying for Canadian benefits is separate from the U.S. process, and it’s important to handle each application independently.
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Consultation and Next Steps:
- Contact Information: Given that you’re based in Washington, it would be convenient to schedule an appointment with your nearest SSA office. During the consultation, we can help you prepare the necessary documentation and forms, including the SSA-2490-BK if applicable.
In summary, you should apply for your U.S. benefits through your local SSA office and your Canadian benefits through the Canadian government. Speaking directly with a Claims Specialist at the SSA will ensure that your situation is handled correctly, and we’re here to assist with any questions or concerns you may have during the process.
The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.
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