I am a 64-year-old Canadian (living near Niagara Border Ontario) who returned to Canada in 2023 after working in the U.S. on a W-2 for 15 years. I can see that US Social security allow us to file online and in person taking appointment by calling them. I have my US$ account with TD here in ontario. I want to deposit all SSA in USD. I checked their form and they directly deposit money to USD account in Canada. Form itself says I have to go to bank and fill up necessary detail from them. Is that must ? I have all info they needed within form.
Another question is what is best approach to file for SSA benefit ?
US SSA Filing question
Moderator: Mark T Serbinski CA CPA
Re: US SSA Filing question
I believe you will be dealing with the Ft. Gratiot office which is likely the best as the personnel there are familiar with CDN applicants and issues. Calling the national number results in less knowledgeable personnel. For example the "national" staff aren't familiar with the Canadian cheque numbering system. (I am a CDN living in London ON). I was able to complete my application via phone and snail mail for the forms required via the Ft.Gratiot office. (more than 10 years ago)
I have a SSA account but there are limitations . For example, even though the SSA site indicates changes can be made through the account I found I was unable to change my phone number there and was required to call in.
It's important to be thoughtful about how you receive the direct deposit from the US. If the US funds are deposited into a CAD dollar account the US gets a much better currency exchange rate from TD. When YOU convert YOUR US dollars to CAD dollars TD will take at least 3%. This really adds up over time.
In short, I'd suggest going through the muddling application process via phone with a Ft. Gratiot staff familiar with Canada. Good luck.
I have a SSA account but there are limitations . For example, even though the SSA site indicates changes can be made through the account I found I was unable to change my phone number there and was required to call in.
It's important to be thoughtful about how you receive the direct deposit from the US. If the US funds are deposited into a CAD dollar account the US gets a much better currency exchange rate from TD. When YOU convert YOUR US dollars to CAD dollars TD will take at least 3%. This really adds up over time.
In short, I'd suggest going through the muddling application process via phone with a Ft. Gratiot staff familiar with Canada. Good luck.