Today, I went to the Social Security office at Frankfurt (Consulate) to sign up for Social Security. I probably could have done this via the internet, but I had questions.
So, some advice;
1. Make an appointment (off their web site). Don't attempt to just show up.
2. Plan for a late morning time (you need the extra time).
3. Free parking? None. Plan to park along the street next to the cemetery. Figure around 4 Euro for cost. Yes, there is a subway connection nearby and that works well.
4. As you walk south to the entry gate.....there are three lines. DON'T go to line 1 (far left) or 3 (far right). Go to the middle. By skipping 1 and 3? You can deduct 25 minutes of wasted time.
5. No cellphones? Correct. Leave them in the car.
6. Stepping out of the security area? The building over to your right is the Social Security facility (on the second floor). Don't try to get there an hour ahead....try to be around 20 to 30 minutes prior.
7. If you aren't sure about how much you will get? Go the web site of Social Security....get a password to your account. At least five to ten years prior to x-day, you ought to have an idea how much it adds up to.
8. If you worked a couple of years for the Germans and put money into their system.....you could claim their status at 65 to 67 years old. You could also claim the amount in your US Social Security deal. Advantages and disadvantages to both.
9. That appointment business.....it's not unlimited time (you get around 15 minutes to do whatever business you were there for).....don't waste time.
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