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WHY MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO VISIT SOCIAL SECURITY?

Do you dare walk into a Social Security office without an appointment?  Not a good idea.

In 2022 the average wait time to be served was 2 hours and 20 minutes, probably even longer in 2024.  Typically, when you just walk in, you will face long lines.  You will be given a number (if you're lucky) and told to wait your turn.

It's much better to call ahead and schedule an appointment.  Some issues can be handled over the phone without a visit; even then, however, Social Security may need to make an appointment for the phone call.

Why the delays and problems?  The basic reasons are too much work and not enough staff.

Since COVID hit us in 2020, Social Security has been losing workers and the agency is on the backside of replacing them.  Even when a worker is replaced, it can take months or years to properly train them.  At the same time, more and more people are doing business with Social Security.

When asking for an appointment, it's important to call your  LOCAL Social Security office, not the national call center (800) 772-1213.  While you local office may list this as their local phone number, it is not.  This 800 number is answered by a call center in Utah.  While you can get information and do some types of business with this national call center, it's better to call your LOCAL office for an appointment.

To be more confusing, local Social Security offices may not publish their phone numbers--or at least no where they are easily found.  Below are a few of our local Social Security offices for north Alabama:

(866) 593-0665     Huntsville

(888) 289-9185     Decatur (Service Limestone County, too)

(800) 521-0073     Albertville

(855) 884-3407     Florence

(877) 803-6362    Cullman

(877) 803- 6323    Gadsden

(877) 405-5866    Lawrenceburg, TN

(866) 635-0647     Tullahoma, TN

Many people need help dealing with Social Security for disability claims or appeals. Start with a call to The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville for a free consultation.  If you have been denied benefits, it's important to call us before 60 days have passed.  Call (256) 799-0297

  

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