The Form SSA-521, also known as the Request for Withdrawal of Application, is a document used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows individuals to withdraw their previously submitted application for benefits. This process negates the original application's legal effects, including rights of appeal and requires the repayment of any benefits received. It's a critical step for those who believe their decision to apply has or will result in a disadvantage. For more information on how to fill out the SSA-521 form, click the button below.
The Social Security SSA 521 form plays a pivotal role in the administration of Social Security benefits, essentially serving as a conduit for individuals wishing to withdraw their application for benefits. At its core, this action nullifies the original application's legal effect, requiring individuals to forfeit all attached rights, including appeals and any payments received, which must be repaid. The form is designed to be utilized under circumstances where the continuance of the application results in a disadvantage to the applicant, prompting a critical assessment of the benefits and drawbacks associated with withdrawal. It encompasses various details, from basic identification, such as names and Social Security numbers, to specifics about the type of benefit the individual aimed to withdraw from and the initial application date. Crucially, it includes a section asking if the applicant wishes to retain Medicare benefits, indicative of the nuanced considerations applicants must weigh. The form also mandates a declaration under penalty of perjury, ensuring the information provided is accurate and truthful, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the Social Security system. Furthermore, the form acknowledges the non-erasure of the withdrawn application from Social Security records, maintaining its part in the individual’s history with the administration while clarifying that such withdrawal doesn’t impact the crediting of wages or self-employment income. This encapsulates the form’s intricate balance between allowing flexibility for applicants to reverse decisions and the administration's need to maintain accurate and comprehensive records.
Form SSA-521 (07-2023) UF
Discontinue Prior Editions
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Social Security Administration
TOE 420
OMB No. 0960-0015
REQUEST FOR WITHDRAWAL OF APPLICATION
Do not write in this space
IMPORTANT NOTICE - This is a request to withdraw your application. If we approve it, the decision we made on your application will have no legal effect. You will forfeit all rights attached to an application, including the rights of appeal. You will have to return any payment we made to you or anyone else on the basis of that application. You must then reapply if you want a determination of your Social Security rights at any time in the future. Any subsequent application may not involve the same retroactive period. We intend for you to use this procedure only when your decision to file has resulted, or will result, in a disadvantage to you. Your local Social Security office will be glad to explain whether, and how, this procedure will help you.
NAME OF WAGE EARNER, SELF-EMPLOYED INDIVIDUAL, OR ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
IF DIFFERENT, PRINT YOUR NAME (First name, middle initial, last name)
YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
TYPE OF BENEFIT YOU WANT TO WITHDRAW
DATE OF APPLICATION IF
APPLICABLE, DO YOU WANT TO KEEP
MEDICARE BENEFITS? Yes
No
I hereby request the withdrawal of my application, dated as above, for the reasons stated below. I understand that (1) this request may not be canceled after 60 days from the mailing of notice of approval; and (2) if a determination of my entitlement has been made, there must be repayment of all benefits paid on the application I want withdrawn, and all other persons whose benefits would be affected must consent to this withdrawal. I further understand that the application withdrawn and all related material will remain a part of the records of the Social Security Administration and that this withdrawal will not affect the proper crediting of wages or self-employment income to my Social Security earnings record.
Give reason for withdrawal. (If you need more space, see additional remarks)
1.I intend to continue working. (I have been advised of the alternatives to withdrawal for applicants under full retirement age and still wish to withdraw my application.)
2.
Other (Please explain fully):
See additional remarks
I declare under penalty of perjury that I have examined all the information on this form, and on any accompanying statements or forms, and it is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand that anyone who knowingly gives a false statement about a material fact in this information, or causes someone else to do so, commits a crime and may be subject to a fine or imprisonment.
SIGNATURE OF PERSON MAKING REQUEST
Signature (First name, middle initial, last name) (Write in ink)
Date (Month, day, year)
SIGN
Telephone Number (include area code)
HERE
Mailing Address (Number and Street, Apt. No., P.O. Box, or Rural Route)
City and State
ZIP Code
Enter Name of County (if any) in which you now live
Witnesses are required ONLY if this request has been signed by mark (X) above. If signed by mark (X), two witnesses to the signing who know the person making the request must sign below, giving their full addresses.
1. Signature of Witness
2. Signature of Witness
Address (Number and Street, City, State and ZIP Code)
FOR USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
APPROVED Signature Field
NOT APPROVED BECAUSE
BENEFITS NOT
CONSENT(S) NOT
OTHER
REPAID
OBTAINED
(Attach special determination)
TITLE
OTHER (Specify)
DATE
CLAIMS SPECIALIST
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Additional Remarks:
Privacy Act Statement
Collection and Use of Personal Information
Sections 202, 205, 223 and 1872 of the Social Security Act, as amended, allow us to collect this information. Furnishing us this information is voluntary. However, failing to provide all or part of the information may prevent withdrawal of the application for benefits.
We will use the information you provide to cancel your application for benefits. We may also share the information for the following purposes, called routine uses:
•To contractors and other Federal Agencies, as necessary, for the purpose of assisting us in the efficient administration of our programs. We will disclose information under this routine use only in situations in which we may enter into a contractual or similar agreement to obtain assistance in accomplishing an SSA function relating to this system of records; and,
•To student volunteers, individuals working under a personal services contract, and other workers who technically do not have the status of Federal employees, when they are performing work for us, as authorized by law, and they need access to personally identifiable information (PII) in our records in order to perform their assigned agency functions.
In addition, we may share this information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other Federal laws. For example, where authorized, we may use and disclose this information in computer matching programs, in which our records are compared with other records to establish or verify a person's eligibility for Federal benefit programs and for repayment of incorrect or delinquent debts under these programs.
A list of additional routine uses is available in our Privacy Act System of Records Notice (SORN) 60-0089, entitled, Claims Folders System, as published in the Federal Register (FR) on October 31, 2019, at 84 FR 58422. Additional information, and a full listing of all of our SORNs, is available on our website at www.ssa.gov/privacy.
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement - This information collection meets the requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507, as amended by section 2 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. You do not need to answer these questions unless we display a valid Office of Management and Budget control number. We estimate that it will take about 5 minutes to read the instructions, gather the facts, and answer the questions. SEND OR BRING THE COMPLETED FORM TO YOUR LOCAL SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE. You can find your local Social Security office through SSA's website at www.socialsecurity.gov. Offices are also listed under U. S. Government agencies in your telephone directory or you may call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
You may send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: SSA, 6401 Security Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401. Send only comments relating to our time estimate or other aspects of this collection to this address, not the completed form.
Filling out the SSA-521 form is an essential step for those who need to withdraw a previously submitted Social Security application. This could be due to various reasons, such as deciding to continue working or reconsidering benefit options. It's important to carefully complete this form to ensure that your request is processed efficiently and accurately. Here's a step-by-step guide to assist you in filling out the form correctly.
Completing Form SSA-521 with accurate and truthful information is crucial for processing your withdrawal request properly. Ensure all details are correct before submitting the form to avoid any potential delays in processing your request. Remember, withdrawing your application means you will need to repay any benefits received, and consent may be required from other affected individuals. Feel free to contact your local Social Security office if you need clarification or assistance throughout this process.
The SSA-521 form is utilized to request the withdrawal of a previously filed Social Security application. If this request is approved, it means the original application decision will be treated as though it never happened. This action requires forfeiting all rights related to the application, including appeal rights, and necessitates repaying any benefits received.
This form should be filed by individuals who have previously applied for Social Security benefits but now wish to withdraw their application, often because they believe that withdrawing will result in a more favorable outcome for their situation.
Requests to withdraw an application must be submitted within 12 months of the initial application date. Additionally, once the request for withdrawal is approved, it cannot be canceled after 60 days from the date of approval notification.
Yes, if your request for withdrawal is approved, you must repay all the benefits that were paid to you or on your behalf as a result of the application you are withdrawing.
Yes, you can choose to keep your Medicare benefits even if you decide to withdraw your Social Security application. You must indicate your decision to keep Medicare on the SSA-521 form.
You can submit the completed SSA-521 form to your local Social Security office. You can find your nearest office on the Social Security Administration's website or by calling their customer service number.
While there is no strict deadline for submitting the SSA-521 form, it is only applicable within 12 months of the original application date. Thus, it's advisable to file it as soon as you decide to withdraw your application to avoid exceeding this period.
For more information, you can visit the official Social Security Administration website or contact your local Social Security office. They can provide detailed explanations and assist you through the withdrawal process.
Filling out the form without fully understanding the implications: Many individuals submit Form SSA-521 without thoroughly understanding how withdrawing their application will affect their Social Security benefits in the future. This procedure forfeits all rights attached to the original application, including appeal rights, and requires repayment of any benefits received.
Not consulting with the Social Security office beforehand: Before submitting the form, it's crucial to speak with a representative from the local Social Security office. They can provide specific advice on whether this process will be beneficial based on individual circumstances.
Incorrectly entering personal information: A common mistake is the incorrect entry of personal details such as the Social Security Number or name. This can delay processing or cause the request to be rejected.
Leaving sections incomplete: Every section of Form SSA-521 is important. Skipping parts of the form can lead to it being returned for completion, delaying the withdrawal process.
Failing to adequately explain the reason for withdrawal: The form requires a reason for the request. Vague or incomplete explanations might not satisfy the requirements and could result in the denial of the request.
Not considering the impact on Medicare benefits: Deciding whether to keep Medicare benefits is a significant decision that can have long-term repercussions. Many overlook this section or fail to understand its importance fully.
Forgetting to sign and date the form: An unsigned or undated form is invalid. This oversight can delay the withdrawal process, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) will return the form for completion.
Omitting consent from other affected persons: If the withdrawal affects the benefits of others, their consent is required. Neglecting to obtain this consent can result in the SSA denying the withdrawal request.
Submitting Form SSA-521 is a significant decision that necessitates careful consideration and complete accuracy. Ensuring the form is filled out correctly and consulting with the Social Security office can help avoid these common mistakes.
When filing a Request for Withdrawal of Application using Form SSA-521, several other documents and forms are often used in conjunction to ensure a comprehensive and robust submission. These additional documents support the withdrawal request by providing detailed information about the applicant's work history, income, and any other benefits they may be receiving or entitled to. Understanding these documents is crucial for a seamless process.
Filing the Request for Withdrawal of Application is a decision that requires careful consideration and, often, the compilation of various supportive documents. Individuals should ensure they fully understand the implications of withdrawing their application, including the necessity to repay any benefits received, and how it may affect their future entitlements. Gathering these documents in advance can streamline the process, making it smoother for both the applicant and the SSA.
Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card): Similar to the SSA-521, the SS-5 form involves interactions with Social Security Administration but serves a different purpose; it is used for applying for an original, replacement, or corrected Social Security card. Both forms involve providing personal identifiers and specific requests to the SSA.
Form SSA-1-BK (Application for Retirement Insurance Benefits): This form, like SSA-521, deals with the entitlement and benefits under the Social Security program. Applicants use SSA-1-BK to initiate their retirement benefits, while SSA-521 is utilized to withdraw an application for benefits already submitted.
Form SSA-16 (Application for Social Security Disability Insurance): SSA-16 facilitates applying for disability benefits. Its similarity with SSA-521 arises in the context of benefits application processes within the SSA framework, though SSA-521 is specifically for withdrawing an application.
Form SSA-44 (Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount - Life-Changing Event): Used for adjusting Medicare premiums based on life-changing events, SSA-44 interacts with personal circumstances affecting SSA benefits, akin to how SSA-521 reflects changes in decision-making about one’s Social Security benefits.
Form HA-501 (Request for Hearing by Administrative Law Judge): While HA-501 is for appealing a decision made by the Social Security Administration, and SSA-521 is for withdrawing an application, both forms represent methods through which applicants can modify or contest the administration's actions concerning their benefits.
Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration): This form is used to request a reconsideration of a decision made by the SSA. Both SSA-561 and SSA-521 allow individuals to revise their engagement with SSA decisions, though through different administrative actions.
Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card): Even though this form is processed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and not the SSA, it shares the similarity of requiring the individual to submit personal information to update or correct official records, as does SSA-521 for Social Security records.
Form W-4V (Voluntary Withholding Request): This IRS form allows individuals to request withholding of federal taxes from certain government benefits. Like the SSA-521, W-4V involves a post-benefit request that affects the future handling of personal government benefits.
Form CMS-40B (Application for Enrollment in Medicare - Part B (Medical Insurance)): CMS-40B is similar to SSA-521 in the sense that it is used to opt into a specific government benefit program, whereas SSA-521 is used to withdraw an application, potentially including the revocation of Medicare benefits.
Filling out the Social Security SSA 521 form is a significant decision that requires careful attention to detail and understanding of its implications. Here are some recommended dos and don'ts to guide you through the process:
Completing the SSA 521 form is a decisive step that must be handled with due diligence and thoroughness to ensure that your social security record accurately reflects your intentions and that you are making informed decisions about your benefits.
When it comes to Social Security and the forms involved, there's a lot to wrap your head around. One such form, the SSA-521, often called the Request for Withdrawal of Application, tends to be shrouded in misconceptions. Let's clear up some of the most common misunderstandings.
Many believe that once you've submitted a Form SSA-521, it leaves a permanent mark or a negative impact on your Social Security record. In reality, withdrawing your application is designed to nullify your initial claim as if it never happened. This action does not negatively impact your record or future benefits.
A common myth is that once you've withdrawn your application, you're locked out from reapplying for benefits in the future. This is not true. The form itself is meant for those who believe their initial decision to apply was disadvantageous. After proper withdrawal, you're free to reapply for benefits when you believe it's more beneficial.
Some think that once you've decided to withdraw your application using the SSA-521 form, the decision is final and irreversible. However, you have a 60-day grace period from the date of approval of the withdrawal to cancel your request, should you change your mind.
It’s often misunderstood that all benefits received must be returned immediately upon the decision to withdraw. While it's true that any benefits paid out must be returned, arrangements can be made with the Social Security Administration to repay in a manner that is feasible for you, although they do require repayment as a condition of the withdrawal.
Many people are under the impression that withdrawing their Social Security application also means they'll lose their Medicare benefits. This isn't necessarily the case. On the SSA-521 form, you have the option to indicate whether you wish to keep your Medicare benefits after withdrawing your Social Security application. This provides flexibility for individuals who rely on Medicare but need to adjust their Social Security benefits strategy.
Understanding the realities of the SSA-521 form can significantly impact your strategy regarding Social Security benefits. As with any financial decision, having the correct information is crucial. If you're contemplating the withdrawal of your Social Security application, consider these points carefully and consult with the local Social Security office to make an informed decision.
Understanding the Social Security SSA 521 form is crucial for those considering withdrawing their Social Security application. Here are eight key takeaways that can help guide individuals through the process:
Completing and submitting the Social Security SSA 521 form is a substantive decision that requires careful thought and, often, guidance from Social Security Administration (SSA) representatives. Applicants are encouraged to discuss this option thoroughly with an SSA representative to ensure it aligns with their long-term benefits strategy.
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