USA Social Security No Payment Today

[JLCrab]

I don't see how anyone's Medicare benefits have been 'stolen' -- you forfeited them by choosing of your own free discretion to live outside the USA. Also, the real problem with starting Medicare Part B down-the-road may not be any penalties or increased fees but that you are only guaranteed acceptance within close range of your 65th birthday; after that you are subject to medical underwriting and if in ill health may not be able to find a company to accept your application.

I don't feel the American government has the right to tell me where I can live. I paid for the benefits I should be able to carry them with me like Social Security. I don't think the government should be out any money but if the cost is the same or less why not?

I paid for SS and I get that in Thailand. I paid for medicare I should get that too. If I pay for something and don't get it that is stealing.

If they shipped all the single old guys to Thailand the cost saving would be enormous and everybody would be happy.

These people agree with you but -- as of today -- the government maintains the right not to offer Medicare coverage ex-USA.

http://www.aaro.org/medicare

[wym]

Be assured our friend wym is a republican (conservative) who would like nothing more that to see soc sec. go away.

You know they would like nothing more than to put the elderly in a position to work until death at minimal payrate.

Be assured I'm not, in many ways I'm sure most Americans would consider me a full-on "socialist" or "communist" or "earth first" radical.

As mentioned earlier my description is simply stating the truth, about current reality as I observe it. Nothing to do with the way I'd like it to be.

[sgtsabai]

Excuse me, I was forced to pay for Medicare and I can't use it, that is theft. It matters not where I choose to live, I should have access to it, otherwise it is theft, pure and simple. The US government has no right what so ever to punish me for leaving it's confines. Yes it would save one hell of a lot of money. Oh I almost forgot, it is the private medical industry that is making the money from this program, heaven forbid they don't get their share and then some. Think about it, all the rip off doctors, hospitals, insurance companies (the real death panels) would be out a shit load of money if Medicare paid out of country. Another thought, maybe the people that went outside the states for good, inexpensive medical care would learn something about the world, oh no can't have that either. And I do hope my SS check is on time, if I could ever figure out when that is. Every time I think I know, it shows up the next week. Looking a past records it is the 2nd Tue. in the month, then again not always. Hey, at least they haven't cut me off for running my mouth against the government, yet.

[JLCrab]

Well Sgt if it is your right to have qualified Medical costs paid for under Medicare and the US government has no right to deny you coverage for a qualified treatment, next time you have an in-patient hospital episode in Thailand, send the bill to Medicare and demand payment as per your rights and file a criminal theft charge against Medicare if reimbursement is denied.

[NeverSure]

Excuse me, I was forced to pay for Medicare and I can't use it, that is theft. It matters not where I choose to live, I should have access to it, otherwise it is theft, pure and simple. The US government has no right what so ever to punish me for leaving it's confines. Yes it would save one hell of a lot of money. Oh I almost forgot, it is the private medical industry that is making the money from this program, heaven forbid they don't get their share and then some. Think about it, all the rip off doctors, hospitals, insurance companies (the real death panels) would be out a shit load of money if Medicare paid out of country. Another thought, maybe the people that went outside the states for good, inexpensive medical care would learn something about the world, oh no can't have that either. And I do hope my SS check is on time, if I could ever figure out when that is. Every time I think I know, it shows up the next week. Looking a past records it is the 2nd Tue. in the month, then again not always. Hey, at least they haven't cut me off for running my mouth against the government, yet.

I disagree. You made a deal a long time ago to pay regularly into medicare with the always understanding that it was good only in the US. A deal is a deal where I come from.

Now, I pay medicare premiums still with the agreement and understanding that it's good only in the US. A deal is a deal.

The good news is that you have medicaid part A for free. So if you have something serious that requires hospitalization but still allows you to make it back to the US, you're covered. That might be something like a diagnosis that you need bypass surgery.

[thailiketoo]

Excuse me, I was forced to pay for Medicare and I can't use it, that is theft. It matters not where I choose to live, I should have access to it, otherwise it is theft, pure and simple. The US government has no right what so ever to punish me for leaving it's confines. Yes it would save one hell of a lot of money. Oh I almost forgot, it is the private medical industry that is making the money from this program, heaven forbid they don't get their share and then some. Think about it, all the rip off doctors, hospitals, insurance companies (the real death panels) would be out a shit load of money if Medicare paid out of country. Another thought, maybe the people that went outside the states for good, inexpensive medical care would learn something about the world, oh no can't have that either. And I do hope my SS check is on time, if I could ever figure out when that is. Every time I think I know, it shows up the next week. Looking a past records it is the 2nd Tue. in the month, then again not always. Hey, at least they haven't cut me off for running my mouth against the government, yet.

I disagree. You made a deal a long time ago to pay regularly into medicare with the always understanding that it was good only in the US. A deal is a deal where I come from.

Now, I pay medicare premiums still with the agreement and understanding that it's good only in the US. A deal is a deal.

The good news is that you have medicaid part A for free. So if you have something serious that requires hospitalization but still allows you to make it back to the US, you're covered. That might be something like a diagnosis that you need bypass surgery.

A deal? I'd agree with you if I had a choice to pay or not to pay. If the US said you don't have to pay if you are going overseas to live when you retire. A deal is two ways. I had no say so at best it is a deal under duress.

[JLCrab]

In the words of former heavyweight boxer George Foreman: I was robbed. Why not contact Medicare and ask for a refund?

[thailiketoo]

In the words of former heavyweight boxer George Foreman: I was robbed. Why not contact Medicare and ask for a refund?

Because I have another government agency covering my insurance.

[JLCrab]

In the words of former heavyweight boxer George Foreman: I was robbed. Why not contact Medicare and ask for a refund?

Because I have another government agency covering my insurance.

Oh -- was that deal under duress as well?

[thailiketoo]

In the words of former heavyweight boxer George Foreman: I was robbed. Why not contact Medicare and ask for a refund?

Because I have another government agency covering my insurance.

Oh -- was that deal under duress as well?

It sure was. The VA is always trying to screw vets out of money and benefits. It is a national disgrace.

[JLCrab]

In the words of former heavyweight boxer George Foreman: I was robbed. Why not contact Medicare and ask for a refund?

Because I have another government agency covering my insurance.

Oh -- was that deal under duress as well?

It sure was. The VA is always trying to screw vets out of money and benefits. It is a national disgrace.

Were you drafted?

[thailiketoo]

Because I have another government agency covering my insurance.

Oh -- was that deal under duress as well?

It sure was. The VA is always trying to screw vets out of money and benefits. It is a national disgrace.

Were you drafted?

Yes

[JLCrab]

Well then you certainly have a more legitimate gripe than those who voluntarily signed up -- but the results are still the same.

[watcharacters]

I can't believe there are people living off their SS and nothing else.

Most people I know that old stateside don't even take it, both on principle and because it's so insignificant.

I guess if you were in that position back home you'd be eating dog food, so I can see why making do with a local-Thai lifestyle would be better.

But when the major health crises arrive, what if you're too sick to get home? Ready to die in a ditch like a dog I suppose.

Oh well as they say up to you, you make your bed, then you lie in it.

Most people I know that old stateside don't even take it, both on principle and because it's so insignificant.

Hogwash. Those that qualify take it. This is not a government hand-out program, as you are probably not even aware of. The employee pays 50%, and the employer pays 50% of the premium, each month on the employees earnings. The government pays nothing. Why would you say no to taking the payment unless you are ignorant of how the fund is built. And, do you really expect me to believe that you would just ignore the maybe $2,000 US dollars a month?

Obviously, you worked for the government and that is where your pension comes from, since you have never paid into Social Security. (Of course, most people I know would not take their government pension based on principal! )

.

I couldn't agree more with you, Stoli. Mr. wym is either telling porkies or is sadly uninformed.

I'd be willing to front more than a few USD that most of the top "1%" collect SS payments if then are qualified to do so.

[thailiketoo]

Well then you certainly have a more legitimate gripe than those who voluntarily signed up -- but the results are still the same.

The results are that the US government will pay the bills wherever and whenever you are treated. Maybe.

But it has nothing to do with social security or medicare.

[JDGRUEN]

Anyone for whom a few days' delay of their pension is a big issue - or even a few months IMO - is really living too close to the edge to be able to afford living overseas.

No cushion for emergencies? Medical incident requiring repatriation? What's the backup plan?

primitive systems used by,your government. Why not done by a central computer? All this separate offices stuff is backwards

Marcusd. Via tapatalk

I don't know where the Social Security Administration's benefit disbursement computer system is located but I doubt that direct bank deposits are done by multiple area or regional offices. The area and regional offices are there for the convenience of citizens to visit and have a face to face discussion with a SSA Agent to initiate a claim or iron out issues and problems in a claim, etc. I will stand corrected if someone has convincing information to the contrary.

[JDGRUEN]

Well then you certainly have a more legitimate gripe than those who voluntarily signed up -- but the results are still the same.

The results are that the US government will pay the bills wherever and whenever you are treated. Maybe.

But it has nothing to do with social security or medicare.

Really now? Please explain how this works...

[thailiketoo]

Well then you certainly have a more legitimate gripe than those who voluntarily signed up -- but the results are still the same.

The results are that the US government will pay the bills wherever and whenever you are treated. Maybe.

But it has nothing to do with social security or medicare.

Really now? Please explain how this works...

All of the information is on line at the VA site or google. PM me if you are a vet with a problem.

[chuckd]

My SS deposit was made into the Bangkok Bank account on schedule, the 3rd of the month, as it has always been. If it is posted after the 3rd it has always been because the bank is closed for a holiday. I have also received it early if the 3rd is on a Saturday or Sunday.

The deposit was reflected on 3 March but the SMS telling me about it didn't arrive until much later in the day than normal. I drove the 110 kilometer roundtrip the next day to the nearest BKK Bank to receive my funds.

Really, business as usual.

[JDGRUEN]

Well then you certainly have a more legitimate gripe than those who voluntarily signed up -- but the results are still the same.

The results are that the US government will pay the bills wherever and whenever you are treated. Maybe.

But it has nothing to do with social security or medicare.

Really now? Please explain how this works...

All of the information is on line at the VA site or google. PM me if you are a vet with a problem.

Somehow I missed an earlier VA reference... However, It would be a pleasant surprise if the VA would pay for or provide medical treatment for me - a U.S. Army Veteran (but not a Military Retiree) here in Thailand. Lucky me ... so far anyway I have never been to a VA Medical Center never having the need to go. But as age advances it would be nice to have VA coverage outside the U.S. ... I have doubts such VA coverage exist without returning to the USA. I have read of a VA medical facility in the Philippines but was told it is only for American Vets who reside there. Please enlighten me ...

[JLCrab]

JDG --

www.tricare.mil

Unlike most seniors, retired military veterans and their families living abroad do have access to covered care under the Tricare Overseas Program-Tricare For Life (TOP TFL). By statute, these military beneficiaries must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, but since Medicare does not cover them abroad, TOP TFL serves as the primary coverage, reimbursing for reasonable, scheduled medical expenses incurred at host nation providers (local, private providers that have been approved by Tricare). Upon submission of proper claims, reimbursement amounts to 75% of expenses incurred. (From http://www.aaro.org/medicare )

[JDGRUEN]

JDG --

www.tricare.mil

Unlike most seniors, retired military veterans and their families living abroad do have access to covered care under the Tricare Overseas Program-Tricare For Life (TOP TFL). By statute, these military beneficiaries must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, but since Medicare does not cover them abroad, TOP TFL serves as the primary coverage, reimbursing for reasonable, scheduled medical expenses incurred at host nation providers (local, private providers that have been approved by Tricare). Upon submission of proper claims, reimbursement amounts to 75% of expenses incurred. (From http://www.aaro.org/medicare )

Good information, if (as previously stated) I was a U.S. Military Retiree but alas I am just an average U.S. Army Veteran, 3 years Active Duty and 14 years in the Army Reserve... Not enough to retire on even in the Army Reserve... I am however happy for my U.S. Military brethren who did make it all the way to formal retirement and can benefit from the program you describe...

[NeverSure]

Most people I know that old stateside don't even take it, both on principle and because it's so insignificant.

You're kidding. My SS check each month is right at US$2,500 (more than 80,000 baht) per month. I'm going to turn that down after I paid into it from when I was a teenager to age 65?

Insignificant? Enjoy your new Ferrari.

Principle? I paid into it for about 50 years and it was a good chunk of my pay. It was my government enforced retirement savings and I'm not going to take it?

Granted, a person should have other savings and investments, but I can't imagine declining what I paid for.

[Lex Talionis]

Regarding Medicare Part A I signed up for an HMO plan which reimburses hospital costs. I have to pay up front ( the purpose of rainy day fund) of course but at least get my money back afterwards (haven't had to use it yet TG so can't give info on how long and what hoops are involved.) Part B is simply money blown which I pay to maintain my eligibility/viability going forward.

Sent from my iPhone using Thaivisa Connect Thailand

[Langsuan Man]

Regarding Medicare Part A I signed up for an HMO plan which reimburses hospital costs. I have to pay up front ( the purpose of rainy day fund) of course but at least get my money back afterwards (haven't had to use it yet TG so can't give info on how long and what hoops are involved.) Part B is simply money blown which I pay to maintain my eligibility/viability going forward.

Sent from my iPhone using Thaivisa Connect Thailand

What are you talking about? Medicare Part A is automatic and is given to you once you hit 65 but like Part B is only good in US Hospitals. Why in the world would anyone pay for an HMO that reimburses hospital costs when Medicare will pay the hospital directly

[JLCrab]

There are Medicare Advantage HMO plans that will reimburse urgent and emergency care in hospitals outside the US for up to a 6-month trip ex-USA.

What I haven't as yet found out online is how much time must elapse between trips i.e. returning to USA, if any, before the next 6-month period begins. There is also maybe a low ($%)K) life time limit

Edited March 7, 2014 by JLCrab

[little mary sunshine]

I find it impossible to believe anyone that has worked for 35-40 years in the States has to

be the least bit concerned thier SS check is a few days late. Get a life, with the earnings,

pensions and savings most people have SS is just a suppliment. Unless you were a freaken

drunk, dead beat, or just lazy, you should have enough money to live on without being

concerned about a SS check being late...........But I have seen my share of dead beat drunks

here in Thailand, from the States.......hard to feel any sympathy for them.

[thailiketoo]

I find it impossible to believe anyone that has worked for 35-40 years in the States has to

be the least bit concerned thier SS check is a few days late. Get a life, with the earnings,

pensions and savings most people have SS is just a suppliment. Unless you were a freaken

drunk, dead beat, or just lazy, you should have enough money to live on without being

concerned about a SS check being late...........But I have seen my share of dead beat drunks

here in Thailand, from the States.......hard to feel any sympathy for them.

10,000,000 people in the USA don't have bank accounts.

http://money.cnn.com/2012/09/12/pf/fdic-bank-accounts/

The tally found that 610,042 people were homeless on that night, reflecting a drop of nearly 4 percent from 2012 to 2013, the agency says. Of that number, 36 percent — 222,197 people — were in families, representing a drop of 7 percent for that group.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/11/21/246589487/number-of-homeless-declines-again-but-gains-arent-universal

[little mary sunshine]

I find it impossible to believe anyone that has worked for 35-40 years in the States has to

be the least bit concerned thier SS check is a few days late. Get a life, with the earnings,

pensions and savings most people have SS is just a suppliment. Unless you were a freaken

drunk, dead beat, or just lazy, you should have enough money to live on without being

concerned about a SS check being late...........But I have seen my share of dead beat drunks

here in Thailand, from the States.......hard to feel any sympathy for them.

10,000,000 people in the USA don't have bank accounts.

http://money.cnn.com/2012/09/12/pf/fdic-bank-accounts/

The tally found that 610,042 people were homeless on that night, reflecting a drop of nearly 4 percent from 2012 to 2013, the agency says. Of that number, 36 percent — 222,197 people — were in families, representing a drop of 7 percent for that group.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/11/21/246589487/number-of-homeless-declines-again-but-gains-arent-universal

Not the working for 35-40 years group...most likely, drunks, druggies, lazy welfare group

or just plain stupid group......

[thailiketoo]

I find it impossible to believe anyone that has worked for 35-40 years in the States has to

be the least bit concerned thier SS check is a few days late. Get a life, with the earnings,

pensions and savings most people have SS is just a suppliment. Unless you were a freaken

drunk, dead beat, or just lazy, you should have enough money to live on without being

concerned about a SS check being late...........But I have seen my share of dead beat drunks

here in Thailand, from the States.......hard to feel any sympathy for them.

10,000,000 people in the USA don't have bank accounts.

http://money.cnn.com/2012/09/12/pf/fdic-bank-accounts/

The tally found that 610,042 people were homeless on that night, reflecting a drop of nearly 4 percent from 2012 to 2013, the agency says. Of that number, 36 percent — 222,197 people — were in families, representing a drop of 7 percent for that group.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/11/21/246589487/number-of-homeless-declines-again-but-gains-arent-universal

Not the working for 35-40 years group...most likely, drunks, druggies, lazy welfare group

or just plain stupid group......

I'm sure you never were in the American military but about 25 percent of the homeless are veterans-131,000 according to VA statistics-

http://powerstates.com/homeless-vets#.Uxlt-IVIG2U