(1)
We recently talked with you about getting permanently reduced (2) benefits.
What You Need To Do
To get these permanently reduced benefits you need to complete the enclosed Certificate of Election and return it in the envelope
provided. The benefit rate is reduced by a specified percentage for each month you
are entitled before full retirement age (FRA). For example, if you were born between
1945 and1956, the benefit reduction would be about 0.396 percent for each month you
are entitled before your FRA. If the deceased worker received retirement benefits
before FRA, the maximum survivor’s benefit is limited to the higher amount that the
deceased worker would have received if still alive or 82.5 percent of the deceased
worker’s unreduced benefit.
Because of this limit, delaying receipt of reduced (3) benefits will not necessarily increase the monthly benefit amount payable. We will
review your election in item 3 of the Certificate of Election to make sure that the
month selected maximizes your benefit amount.
Please call the number shown above if you need help completing the Certificate of
Election.
Other Social Security Benefits
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•
If the deceased worker’s death occurred prior to FRA or prior to one year past FRA
and he/she could not work due to disability before death, you may be able to get higher
benefits on the deceased worker’s record. You have to file a separate application
for the higher benefits within 3 months after the month the worker died.
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•
If you were married before, you may be able to get a higher benefit on your prior
spouse's record. Please file an application to determine if you are eligible for these
benefits.
If You Have Any Questions
3901C
3901D
OPTIONAL:
UTI: REF061 (TSC use)
UTI: REF120 (TSC use)
Enclosures:
SSA-4111
Preaddressed Envelope