Telephone Service Safe and Faster

By Sandy Taylor
District Manager, SSA

In today's hectic society, using the telephone is a quick, easy way to take care of business and Social Security is no exception. You can take care of most of your Social Security business by using a toll-free 800 number. But what if the call we receive about your Social Security business is not from you? Is your personal information safe? The answer is yes.

Social Security recognizes that possibility an imposter may call and try to obtain information such as someone's Social Security number, earnings record, age, or address. This is why the employees at every Social Security office are very careful to verify the identity of the people who call us. If we are unable to do so, we request the caller to come into the office.

If you ask a family member or friend to call Social Security for you, you need to be with them when they call so we will know that you want them to assist you. The Social Security representative will verify your identity and ask for permission to discuss your Social Security business with that person.

In the case of a minor child, the natural parent or legal guardian can act on the child's behalf in taking care of the child's Social Security business, and Social Security takes every precaution to identify this person when they call.

When you call the Social Security toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, you can get information 24 hours daily. You can speak to a service representative between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on business days.

Because our lines are often busy early in the day, it is best to call at other times such as late in the day, late in the week, and late in the month, if possible. Whenever you call, please have your Social Security number handy.

People who are hearing impaired may call our toll-free "TTD" number 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on business days.