babyboomer - it is my understanding you can't just show up at the local SS office and talk to anyone - you must make an appointment. When I talked to them on the phone, I asked about coming in, but they say they can help me over the phone, or to call the national 800 number.

Jim - I am so glad your wife was finally approved. RSD is a horrible thing to live with.

Echos - I did not use a lawyer. I filed myself.

Janke - I looked up SS Windfall Offset.... I have never worked for anyone without paying SS. Well, when I was a young teen I did a little babysitting - very little... and I didn't pay SS then. I started working at a regular job at age 17, continued until 52. Knowing that, do you think I should still talk to the windfall specialist?

I was approved so quickly, they only owe me 3 months of backpay. It won't add up to very much.

Thanks everyone for your responses. I typed up a reply on my phone last night, but for some reason it did not show up.