General, Online Services

Customer Service Is What We Do

October 3, 2016 • By

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Last Updated: August 19, 2021

customer-service

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.

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About the Author

Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications

Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications

Comments

  1. Susan C.

    How can I create an account if I am living in Canada and have no U.S. address?

    • V.V.

      Hi Susan, thanks for using our blog to ask your question. Unfortunately, at present, our electronic authentication process requires that you have a U.S. mailing address to set up an online account. However, if you need help, assistance, or information about your account, you can contact your nearest Federal Benefits Unit. Also, our Office of International Operations home page provides more information to assist our customers living abroad. You can also use the Canadian Service Area Directory to determine which Resident Office is near you. Go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/foreign/canada.htm.

  2. Claire S.

    Today when starting to file the representative payee form on line I was saw the message that a rep payee who is a parent of a disabled adult who lives with parent is no longer required to file the rep payee report. My 56 year old son lives with me. How do I go about informing social security of this.

    Claire Norton

    • V.V.

      Hi Claire, that is correct. Due to a recent change in law, we no longer require the following representative payees to complete an annual Representative Payee Report:
      •Natural or adoptive parents of a minor child beneficiary who primarily reside in the same household as the child;
      •Legal guardians of a minor child beneficiary who primarily reside in the same household as the child;
      •Natural or adoptive parents of a disabled adult beneficiary who primarily reside in the same household as the beneficiary; and
      •Spouse of a beneficiary.

      If you meet the criteria, you do not need to complete the accounting form. However, you are still required to keep records of how you spent or saved the payments, and make all records available for review if requested by SSA.

  3. Randall F.

    I’ve been trying to get a hold of someone. Can I have a member of the SS department call me back?

    • V.V.

      Hi Randall. We’re sorry that you are having difficulty reaching someone by phone.

      Remember, many services, including applying for retirement, disability and Medicare benefits, requesting a replacement Medicare card, or reporting a change of address are conveniently available anytime at our website. When you use your personal my Social Security account, you can click on “Ask a Question” or “Talk to an Expert” for a call back.

  4. SUSANNE D.

    Will my social security be paid to me if the government is still closed………

    • V.V.

      Hi Susanne: Social Security is not affected by the government shut down. All payments will be made on schedule.

  5. Nancy M.

    I would like to schedule an appointment to speak with an agent at the West Chester PA SSA office on West Chester Pike. I am currently employed and will be continuing my health insurance. I need to know which of the parts of the Medicare Benefits I need to sign up for besides Part A..so that I will not incur any penalties associated with not signing up for Parts B-C or D

  6. Nahoma T.

    My usual deposit was not deposited nor Did I receive a notification of how much of an increase I would get

    • R.F.

      Hello Nahoma. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot answer your question at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks!

  7. sharon e.

    the email address on here is old and i do not remember what it was.
    do i need to open another sc messaginh\

  8. Raymond G.

    I am attempting to retrieve my password using the CORRECT username, CORRECT birthdate and CORRECT SS# as printed on my card but your system refuses to recognize me and has now shut me out!

  9. Jeannine E.

    I need social security to call me back.. i have not been able to reach a person for more that 2 weeks and now my very sick 7 year old daughter has been denied her income and health benefits. I home school my daughter because she was slower at picking things up in public school ( born one pound nine ounces and is 6 months delayed physically and emotionally with ADHD and insomnia , her health issues including upcoming open heart surgeries and constant medical check ups , make is impossible to live on no income. Her father is 17k behind on child support and is no help at all. not with the care of her nor mentally or financially. My phone witch is our only way of contact is being cut off tomorrow do to my ssi funds being canceled right at Christmas with less than a weeks notice. I have complied with all updates and there are correspondence via internet and phone via myself updating my info and follow all protocols since the start of her journey in life with the very needed help from ssi. I have contacted ssi and have not had any resaponse or a call back. Now my phone and lights are off, rent is due, and i cant call out to reach them. please. i need to talk with a representative asap. Jeannine Eakes
    2522688076

    • K.O.

      Hello Jeannine. We are sorry to hear about you and your daughter’s situation. Unfortunately, her issue is a bit more than we can handle via this forum. For her security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. We ask that she continue to work with her local office. She can ask to speak to a manager on her next call or visit. We hope this is resolved soon.

  10. Thomas l.

    Can someone help me find the appropriate department to discuss my username/password relating to My Social Security account. I cannot find how to reach the appropriate department.
    Thanks

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