In addition to getting a passport, it may also be a good idea to get TSA Precheck. I got it about a year ago just because I was traveling a lot and airport security is a hassle. I am glad I did it. It really helps.
Airport security may become tighter depending on the political situation If you can get TSA precheck it could be especially helpful as we traverse this craziness.
It was off line when I checked this morning. Hopefully it is not T related, but we will know for sure on Monday.
@deetoo @jeanne-mayell - it is back. I wanted to go in again and see if there were any other things I could/should download and online services worked for me.
Another thing I read in regards to this is to get your 2024 taxes filed as soon as possible, and make sure you have a copy. Social Security keeps up with our income though our tax filings.
We just finished at the Martin O'Malley town hall. He's great. He referred us to this CNN article and asked us to share it. Wanted to share it with you.
https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/08/politics/social-security-administration-staff-cuts/index.html
@raincloud I was on the site twice yesterday after Jeanne suggest we download are file. I had no trouble getting to my page and downloading my information. I just sign up to get my SS. I was going to wait until I was 70, but with the way thing are I was afraid waiting would make it harder to apply. It took the normal 30 days for review, and I got my first check last week.
I went on the Social Security website this morning and was able to print out everything. Filed my taxes online on the 3rd and just checked and learned that the refund is expected to be in my bank on the 10th. I’ll be tracking that. Taking your advice, I checked my passport and discovered it’s due to expire next month. I’m working through the online process this weekend. Thanks to everyone for the heads-up!
@mtgal99 My plan has also been to wait until 70 for SS benefits. But lately I have been questioning whether that is wise. I'm not even at the "full social security age" yet so it would be a big cut.
@ana It may be a bit less but you get it for longer. That's the way I look at it. It sort of evens out.