General Discussion

Old Crank

(6,666 posts) Fri Jul 4, 2025, 06:43 AM Jul 2025

Well it worked,

my social security payments have been moved from my US bank to my German bank.
What a procedure. Most of the issues involve security. They don't want you to just change bank deposit on-line.
It has to be mailed in and then you get a call from a person at the consulate near you. You need to sign into MyID to show you are you.
Fun stuff, the man I talked to was great and we got it done. The first attempt sounded too much like a scam, Unlisted number with no call back, wanted a pin, and other personal information. So I hung up. Had to call the consulate during the hours that they work on SSocial Security. All is good.

6 replies

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Well it worked, (Original Post) Old Crank Jul 2025 OP

I've been advised to keep mine going to US bank, use sinkingfeeling Jul 2025 #1

Different countries pose different issues. Old Crank Jul 2025 #2

It is complicated, isn't it? But that's a protective thing. MineralMan Jul 2025 #3

If things get ugly Old Crank Jul 2025 #4

Every situation is unique, of course. MineralMan Jul 2025 #5

Thanks Old Crank Jul 2025 #6

sinkingfeeling

(57,209 posts)

1. I've been advised to keep mine going to US bank, use

Reply to Old Crank (Original post)

Fri Jul 4, 2025, 07:31 AM

Jul 2025

my international credit card to pay for everything in Costa Rica, and then pay my bill online. To keep very little in Costa Rican bank and avoid their high exchange rate.

Old Crank

(6,666 posts)

2. Different countries pose different issues.

Reply to sinkingfeeling (Reply #1)

Fri Jul 4, 2025, 07:46 AM

Jul 2025

We are buying a flat and need to show income in a German bank for the loan.
I don't know how easy or hard it is to change the bank for your deposits in the US.

MineralMan

(150,626 posts)

3. It is complicated, isn't it? But that's a protective thing.

Reply to Old Crank (Original post)

Fri Jul 4, 2025, 09:26 AM

Jul 2025

Frankly, I'd be a little skeptical about automatic deposits of SS benefits in a foreign bank. I understand your needs, but I think i wouldn't advise the average person living outside of the US to do that with their SS deposits. Especially right now, given the current administration's stupidity and callousness.