Fill out SSA-521 (Request for Withdrawal of Application) online
Form SSA-521 is used to request the withdrawal of a pending application for Social Security benefits. Filing this form cancels a previously submitted application for retirement, disability, survivors, or spouse benefits. If benefits have already been paid, all received payments must be repaid before the withdrawal is processed.
How to fill out SSA-521 (Request for Withdrawal of Application)
Determine if withdrawal is the right option
Understand that withdrawal cancels your application entirely, as if it was never filed. You must repay all benefits received. Compare this with benefit suspension, which is available at full retirement age and does not require repayment. Withdrawal is limited to within 12 months of your first month of entitlement for retirement benefits.
Enter personal information
Provide your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and contact information. Identify the specific application you are requesting to withdraw, including the type of benefit and the date you filed.
State your reason for withdrawal
Explain why you want to withdraw your application. Common reasons include wanting to earn delayed retirement credits for a higher monthly benefit, returning to work, or a change in financial circumstances.
Sign and submit
Sign and date the form. Submit it to your local Social Security office. All individuals receiving benefits on your record (such as a spouse) must also consent to the withdrawal by signing the form. SSA will calculate the total amount to be repaid.
About SSA-521 (Request for Withdrawal of Application)
Who needs this form
Individuals who have filed an application for Social Security benefits and have decided they want to cancel it. Common reasons include realizing that delaying benefits would result in a higher monthly payment, a change in financial circumstances, or returning to work after filing for disability.
Where to submit
Submit to your local Social Security office in person or by mail. You can also call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to initiate the process. The withdrawal must be approved by SSA and any benefits already received must be repaid in full.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not understanding that all benefits received must be repaid in full before the withdrawal is processed
- Waiting too long to withdraw (retirement benefit withdrawals must be filed within 12 months of the first month of entitlement)
- Not realizing that withdrawing also affects benefits being paid to family members on the same record
- Confusing withdrawal with suspension of benefits (suspension does not require repayment)
Frequently asked questions
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Can I withdraw my Social Security application more than once?
You can only withdraw your application once in your lifetime. If you withdraw and later reapply, you cannot withdraw a second time. This makes the decision significant, so consider it carefully. After withdrawal and repayment, you can reapply at any time and your benefit amount will be recalculated based on your age at the new filing date, potentially resulting in a higher monthly payment.
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