Whether you make an appointment or not, it’s always a good idea to show up 15 minutes early. It’s okay to ask a question more than once if you don’t understand the answer. While you are being polite, also be persistent. Your patience and kindness will go a long way to helping you get the service you deserve and getting all your questions answered. Keep in mind that the Claims Representative you speak to talks with a lot of people each day, and some of them are frustrated and difficult. What documents will I need to prove my resources? 5.What documents will I need to prove my income?.
What information do I need to show my work history?.What medical information (records) will I need?.How long will it take for me to find out the decision?.Should I apply for SSI or SSDI? What’s the difference?.Some examples of good questions to ask if you are applying for disability: Your goal is to make sure everything gets answered. There is no such thing as a dumb question! Give some thought to what you don’t understand about the disability or retirement process, and write it down. For this reason, everyone should bring a list of questions. It can be intimidating to sit down with a Claims Specialist when you have limited time and are unfamiliar with the SSA application process. If you are not a US citizen or are naturalized, bring all documentation relating to your temporary or permanent resident status to your appointment. If you have a US passport or US birth certificate, take them with you. You should always bring your Social Security Card and a copy of any personal identifying information (including a current driver’s license). If you forget a document or can’t find it, you may need to make another trip (and set up another appointment) so it’s worth checking the notes you took while speaking with the Claims Specialist. It may require some time to locate your documents, but if you cannot find all of them, bring what you have. When you call for the appointment, be sure to ask the Claims Specialist which forms you should bring, and take notes. Write the date and time in your calendar and make it a priority. The sooner you get there, the faster you can begin your application process. Set up your appointment, and do your best to keep it.
The best time to call is first thing in the morning or in the last hour of the day, from 6-7 pm.Īn SSA employee will give you a call back if you leave a message before the office opens at 9 am. Making an appointment is simple: call 1-80 (or a local office number if you are able to find one) Monday through Friday between 7 am and 7 pm. It’s similar to taking a trip to the Motor Vehicle Department, but the wait at the SSA field office can be much longer.ĭo yourself a big favor, and take the time to schedule an appointment. If you show up without an appointment, you will probably get a chance to talk to a Claims Specialist that day–but you might not. This is exactly what happens when you go to your local SSA office–you get personal attention.īut it’s important to make an appointment so you won’t be tired from waiting by the time you get seen.
Schedule Your VisitĪlthough it’s possible to apply for SSI and SSDI online, many people prefer the personal touch and feel better getting questions answered face-to-face rather than via a computer screen. Use these tips to ensure your SSA trip goes as smoothly as possible, with few hassles and hiccups. When you visit, you can get more help if you have questions ready for the representative who serves you. The Social Security Administration (SSA) local office is the location that handles all types of Social Security claims and applications, from retirement to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
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