[GOPJ]

And yet we are being blocked and cannot access the my Social Security information site because we cannot receive mobile SMS messages to verify who we are. Yes, we do have telephone numbers in Japan (and even an Internet based U.S. phone number) but those numbers lie outside the security blanket of US mobile phone connections.

So how does Social Security communicate with us? Well, that's the role of the Federal Benefits Unit in Tokyo, operating out of the U.S. embassy, who maintains contact with all the Americans resident in Japan through postal letters, phone calls, and on-line-submitted exchange of info and questions.

Interesting stuff pundit... I see a future book here - letting American newcomers know what to expect. You might want to file your experiences so when the time comes to write, the book will almost write itself.

[poconopundit]

Thank you for your valuable perspective in the publishing realm.  A book is a good idea for sure.

I'm thinking what's really needed more is a website (similar to FR) where the concerns of Americans living in Japan is the subject matter.

And rather than a published book, a bait piece (a mini-book) with lots of valuable information can draw members into the free forum.

I love the idea that a forum exists that is not a veiled advertisement for somebody's business.  There's plenty of websites that serve that purpose well, but nobody gets to the heart of what Americans really need to know to move or live here.

And the FBU in Tokyo has a limited number of (what appears to be mostly Japanese staff) and so they cannot really serving the full information need.

So maybe this is a worthwhile pursuit for the next 10 years of my life on this Earth.

Your perspective is highly valued, my FRiend.