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.
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Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications
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Bluffley K.
Customer service is what you don’t do when you DELIBERATELY cheat people out of unpaid benefits for as many as 16 years and stonewall to keep them from getting them just like you do in the Steigerwald v. Berryhill class action lawsuit..
Gary T.
Hi Folks — Very disappointed with trying to create an account on “MySSa”. Locked me out after three tries.
The information submitted was correct…so the web site needs a lot of work. –Gary
J. C.
How do I return a Social Security amount? The recipient died on Feb 4 and the check arrived February 9th for $1162? Also is the death benefit automatic?
A.C.
Hi. We are very sorry for your loss. Social Security benefits are paid the month after they are due. Based on the date of death, it appears the individual was due the payment but since the death occurred before the payment date, their benefits may be returned. We may pay amounts due a deceased beneficiary to a family member or legal representative of the estate. See “Claim For Amounts Due In The Case Of Deceased Beneficiary” for more information. In some instances, the financial institution will automatically return payments upon notification of the beneficiary’s death. The Lump-Sum Death benefit of $255 (a one-time payment) may be payable upon the death of a person who has worked long enough to be insured under Social Security. An application for the Lump-Sum death payment must be submitted within two years of the insured person’s death. In addition, eligible family members may be able to receive monthly Survivor benefits. For more information on this, please read How Social Security Can Help You When a Family Member Dies. For any additional specific questions, you can call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., for assistance. Generally, you will have a shorter wait if you call later in the day. You can also contact your local Social Security office. We hope this helps.
Terri
I had the opportunity to visit the LaGrange, Ga. Social Security Office a few weeks ago with my brother. He was approved for his benefits and we had to go in and see Jean Godfrey for his update. I must say, it was the most pleasant experience I’ve ever had in dealing with Social Security offices. I live and hour away and all the offices in my area are large and always packed and “rushed” but she treated my brother like he mattered, like he wasn’t just another number. He was really sick, he’s a heart patient. At one point, he asked if they had water and she took the time to get him a bottled water so he wouldn’t have to get up from her desk and try to walk all the way back to the lobby to get some from the fountain. Even offered to let him go home and she would call him to finish the rest by phone. It was just really nice to witness such kindness in a time and place where we tend to rush through our days without caring for others. I’ve made up my mind that whenever I have any business to handle with Social Security, I’m driving down to LaGrange, Ga.! They are well worth the drive.
Carl D.
Last week I had the pleasure to work with Ruby in a TX office. She helped me complete my application that had some incorrect information entered by me. Within a short time she had fixed my claim to begin receiving Social Security benefits. She then asked if I had a spouse who would be applying. I said “Yes” and Ruby asked if she wanted to apply right then and there. My spouse did apply right then and there. All through this very efficient process Ruby was the ideal ambassador for the SSA. You selected the cream of the crop SSA!
A.C.
Thank you, Carl! We’re pleased we can help. Our employees are committed to providing the public with the best service possible. We promise to pass your note along to our colleague.
Renee T.
I am turning 65 this May. I am currently working with benefits so I will not be requesting Medicare until I retire at the age of 66. I there anything I need to do?
A.C.
Hi, Renee. If you are still working and covered under a group health plan based on that employment, you may not need to file for Medicare Parts A and B until you stop working or drop your health care coverage. We always suggest that individuals speak to their personnel office, health benefits advisor, or health plan representative to see what’s best for them, and to prevent any penalties or delayed enrollment in the future. Please contact your local Social Security office for further assistance or call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Volunteer
why not sign up for Part A? It’s free with 40 credits.
James L.
I have been trying to get my 2018 SS 1099 online but have been blocked due to a username problem and I am unable to navigate through the site.
A.C.
Hi, James. We are sorry to hear about your experience. If you are unable to access your account or encounter a problem with your personal my Social Security account, you may:
•Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. At the voice prompt, say “helpdesk”; or
•Contact your local Social Security office. Your local office can also assist with a replacement SSA-1099. We hope this helps.
dennis e.
on what date will my SS payment be deposited in my account
A.C.
Hi, Dennis. For your security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. We ask that members in our Blog community to work with our offices with specific questions. You can call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Or you can contact your local office. You may also find our Schedule of Social Security Benefits Calendar useful. We hope this helps.
Tara C.
Can I send voluntary withholding request form to Poughkeepsie my off
Catherine A.
My husband & I both signed up on line for SS. We have lost our user names & passwords when we moved. Its a 3 hour wait at our location SS office & 1 1/2 hour wait when I call in. I’m having no luck trying to get help on line. PLEASE HELP ME. We want to with hold 10% for taxes & cant get in !!!!!!
A.C.
Hi, Catherine. Unfortunately, but for your security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. To retrieve or change your account username or password, please follow the instructions here. As far as tax withholding, in order to have taxes withheld from your Social Security benefit, you must start by printing, completing and submitting an IRS Voluntary Withholding Request Form (Form W-4V). On this form, you can choose to have 7, 10, 12, or 22 percent of your monthly benefit withheld. Please see our Benefits Planner: Withholding Income Tax From Your Social Security Benefits web page for more information. Thanks!