A Florida resident for over 60 years, Jimmy Klass, is facing a shocking reality. Despite living the life of a U.S. citizen, complete with a Social Security card, driver’s license, and even voter registration, Klass recently discovered he isn’t actually a citizen. This revelation has thrown his retirement plans into disarray, as he’s now denied access to his Social Security benefits.
Klass, 66, came to the U.S. at just two years old with his American father and Canadian mother. He recounted his upbringing to a local news station, “We moved into the house next to my grandparents,” he said, describing his life as no different from any other American citizen.
However, when applying for Social Security retirement payments in 2020, Klass received a denial. The Social Security Administration claimed he hadn’t proven his citizenship. Despite possessing a Medicare card for over a year and a half, Klass’ citizenship status remained unclear.
Left with limited options, Klass is now working again and has even set up a GoFundMe campaign to cover legal and documentation fees associated with proving his citizenship to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS, citing privacy concerns, declined to comment on Klass’ specific case.
The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 outlines a path to citizenship for children of U.S. citizens under certain conditions. However, Klass’ case remains unresolved.
