Customer Service Is What We Do
Reading Time: 1 MinuteLast Updated: August 19, 2021
Social Security has been in the customer service business for more than 81 years, and with Customer Service Week, October 3-7, at hand, it is an exciting time to share the importance of this long-standing tradition.
“My experience with SSA has always been positive.”–Edward M.
This week focuses on commitment to excellence in service. Many of you rely on us for our programs and services. While much of the assistance we give is during the most critical times in your life, it is our belief that with every interaction with us you deserve professional, courteous, and compassionate service.
Times have progressed from 81 years ago, when most customer-to-employee interactions were in person. Today, part of your changing needs is the convenience of quick and secure online service options to conduct your Social Security business. Whether you are home or on the go, you can visit www.socialsecurity.gov to use our many online services. And we are committed to customer choice, so you can always come see us in the office or call us on our 800 number.
Did you find this Information helpful?
Tags: online services
See CommentsAbout the Author
Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications
Comments
Comments are closed.
william z.
I need the web page link for to put in callback from ssa representative to avoid the wait time when I call the ssa from my home.
V.V.
Hi William. Thanks for the question. In your my Social Security account, you can click on “Get Help” to “Ask a Question” or “Talk to an Expert” for a call back. Plus, a new “Click to Chat” feature, providing individuals in their my Social Security account an opportunity to chat with a Social Security representative, is coming soon.
S. F.
Need to inquire about my benefits since my husband just recently passed away. I need to talk to someone personally and I want to make an appointment sometime between 12-11-18 / 12-14-18.
V.V.
Hi there. We are very sorry for your loss. If you already receive benefits as a spouse, under your husband’s record, your benefit will automatically convert to widow’s benefits after we receive the report of death. Typically, the funeral director notifies us of an individual’s passing by contacting the local Social Security office.
If you are receiving retirement benefits on your own record, you can only apply for benefits as a widow if your retirement benefit amount is less than the benefits you would receive as a survivor.
You cannot report a death or apply for survivors benefits online. If you need to report a death or apply for benefits, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can speak to a Social Security representative between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. You can also visit your local Social Security office. An appointment is not required, but if you call ahead and schedule one, it may reduce the time you spend waiting to speak to someone. Thanks.
Janice T.
Hello, I tried to called your office today and find when my appointment is. I waited for 15 minutes and then the automated speaker had the phone ring again and then just told me to call back at a later time. Could you please tell me when my appointment is. Thank you for your time and have a great day. Janice H. Trent
V.V.
Thank you for contacting us, Janice. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot assist you.
We certainly do apologize for the difficulties you are experiencing in contacting Social Security. We have representatives available at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to speak with you between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. business days.
Barbara H.
Been trying 11/28/18 I’v trying to get through your phone line, and have waited for hour! I need to stop/cancel you guys from withdrawing money out of my SS check for medicare! I have coverage through my husband’s job. And please reimburse me for the couple of months you have drawn money out. Thank you! Barbara H Wagoner
Timothy D.
didn’t get my social security deposit for November
R.F.
Hello Timothy. Generally, Social Security benefits are paid the third day of the month, or the second, third or fourth Wednesday of the month. Please visit our Schedule of Social Security Payments web page for the current payment dates.
If you have direct deposit, please contact your bank or financial institution first. They may be able to determine why your direct deposit failed.
If you still need to report a late, missing or stolen Social Security payment, call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Or contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!
Reco D.
Do it cost to get a ssi card
V.V.
Hi Reco. The Social Security Administration does not charge for a replacement Social Security card. We recommend you only obtain a replacement if you need one. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. However, if you must get a replacement card, you will need to gather documents proving both your identity and citizenship status. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, visit our Social Security Number and Card web page. Thanks!
MB M.
I have not received my monthly direct deposit from SSA. Normally deposited on the 17th of the month.
minkmb@gmail.com
V.V.
Hi MB. Benefits are not paid on a specific date each month. If you were receiving or applied for Social Security benefits on or before April 30, 1997, or if you receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will receive your benefit on the third of the month. If you receive only SSI, you will receive your benefit on the first of the month. If you applied for Social Security benefits after April 30, 1997, your birthday determines your payment date:
Date of Birth Payment Day:
1st through 10th Second Wednesday
11th through 20th Third Wednesday
21st through 31st Fourth Wednesday
Go to Schedule of Social Security Payments for the current payment dates.
patty m.
I visited the Joplin Missouri social security office at 3:45 pm on November 20, 2018 and definitely did not experience compassionate customer service as described on your website. I waited patiently in the lobby for 15 minutes even though there were no other customers waiting and listened to several female voices telling stories and laughing. When my number was called, I simply asked the woman behind the bullet proof glass window if I could schedule a phone call with a social security staff person, my husband who is unable to travel and our financial adviser for a future day. Although your website indicates that scheduling an appointment to discuss my social security questions was a service you provide, the woman behind the bullet proof glass window said it was NOT an option – appointments could be scheduled only for assistance in completing the application for benefits paperwork. When I tried to explain that I had seen the service described as “available” on the social security website, she called a security guard over to escort me out of the building. Can you please help me schedule a phone appointment with a social security staff to discuss my husbands questions?
V.V.
Hi Patty. We are sorry to hear about your unpleasant experience with one of our representatives. We have referred your complaint to our Office of Operations to follow up and to take corrective action as necessary. To make an appointment with your local office, call 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Rocco F.
Last year I signed up for Medicare and have the AARP Medicare Complete Plan 3 HMO thru United Healthcare.
I am still employed and now realize the Healthcare Plan offered at my place of employment is better for me while I remain employed. I would like to cancel my Plan B medical coverage ASAP and go to the plan at work for 2019. What is the process to cancel my Plan B coverage?
George G.
I have not received my direct deposit payment for the last 2 months.
How can I investigate and correct this problem
V.V.
George, please contact your bank or financial institution first. They may be able to determine if your direct deposit failed. If you still need to report a late, missing or stolen Social Security payment, call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. or contact your local Social Security office.