Social security benefits

[jrao124]

Hello,

My husband and I are green card holders for 2+ yrs now. If we decide to go back to India next year, essentially giving up our green cards, will we still be eligible to receive social security payments when we turn 60, in India? Of course, assuming we have completed 40 credits which we will next year.

Also, a related question, can we get a refund of the social security amount (the principal we have been paying) when we go back?

All this assuming we will not take a citizenship and give up our GCs and go back..

Thanks in advance for the help.

J Rao

[TheRealCanadian]

Originally Posted by jrao124

will we still be eligible to receive social security payments when we turn 60, in India? Of course, assuming we have completed 40 credits which we will next year.

You are not eligible to collect from SS at 60, no matter where in the world you live. You can take reduced benefits starting at 62 IIRC, and full benefits at 67.

Also, a related question, can we get a refund of the social security amount (the principal we have been paying) when we go back?

That assumes that the money you have contributed is in any way yours, which it is not. It has already been spent paying for existing benefits.

[jrao124]

Hi,

Thanks for your reply.

What is IIRC?
So, at 62 or 67, can we get the benefits even if we dont live in the US and no longer have a green card or any other legal status here?

Thanks
J Rao

[TheRealCanadian]

I believe that this covers things.

http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10137.html

It appears you can still collect in India, but I may be wrong.