stomping about. It appears as that is not the case, according to an article that a poster (Meowmee) linked above - and I will recommend as answering a lot of questions. Will also repost link and some relevant excerpts ...
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/benefits-suspended-americans-abroad-suddenly-203035535.html
This Suspension Is Not Related to DOGE or Elon Musk
While Social Security funding has been a hot topic in Washington, these recent suspensions are unrelated to the controversy surrounding Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Musk and DOGE have faced backlash after a judge temporarily blocked them from accessing the Treasury Department's payment system, which handles Social Security payments, tax refunds and federal salaries. This move came after concerns that DOGE had accessed sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers and bank account details. Treasury officials later clarified that DOGE had only "read-only" access, but Democrats have raised alarms about possible government overreach.
Despite the political storm in Washington, the current suspension of Social Security benefits for Americans abroad is entirely unrelated to DOGE, Musk or any policy changes under President Donald Trump. This is a routine SSA process to verify eligibility, and anyone who submits their required form will have their payments reinstated.
What To Do Next
If you live abroad and rely on Social Security benefits, check whether you have received the Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire. If not, contact your Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) immediately to avoid further delays.
The SSA has been sending out these forms for decades, but this unexpected hold on payments has been a frustrating wake-up call for many affected beneficiaries. Fortunately, the solution is straightforward – send in the form, follow up with the FBU and your benefits should resume within a week.
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