Navigating Social Security for Dual Citizens: USA, Switzerland, Italy

Do you have knowledge or experience in dealing with someone who is a citizen of multiple countries (in my client’s case USA, Switzerland, and Italy) that can collect both US Social Security as well as Swiss Social Security? I have documentation for both and am trying to think through the details. Naturally if you have experience I am happy to engage you for your services on this specific matter.

Switzerland is one of the countries the U.S. has an agreement with regarding pension and Social Security benefits.  If the individual has enough work to receive benefits from each country the U.S. Social Security benefit will be subject to WEP. 

I have knowledge and experience in dealing with situations involving multiple citizenships, particularly when it comes to collecting Social Security benefits from both the United States and Switzerland. Here’s an overview of how this works:

1. U.S.-Switzerland Agreement:

   • Totalization Agreement: Switzerland is one of the countries that has a Social Security Totalization Agreement with the United States. This agreement helps avoid double taxation and allows individuals to combine work credits from both countries to qualify for benefits.

2. Eligibility for Benefits:

   • Separate Benefits: If your client has sufficient work credits in both the U.S. and Switzerland, they may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits from each country.
   • WEP Consideration: However, the U.S. Social Security benefit may be subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). WEP can reduce the U.S. Social Security benefit if the person is also receiving a pension from work that wasn’t covered by U.S. Social Security taxes, such as Swiss Social Security.

3. Details to Consider:

   • Impact of Multiple Benefits: It’s important to carefully consider how benefits from one country might affect the other, particularly under WEP. Additionally, factors like tax implications and the currency exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and Swiss franc should also be taken into account.

If you would like to engage further on this specific matter, I’d be happy to assist with the details and documentation review to ensure your client maximizes their benefits while staying compliant with all relevant regulations. Let me know how you’d like to proceed!

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.