The Social Security Administration is hosting a webinar through Microsoft Teams on Dec. 11, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Nathan Cole will lead the workshop, “Social Security 101,” to explain Social Security benefits and eligibility. The webinar is free but registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/3CCUboo or scan the QR code to be directed to the site.
Local offices emphasize appointment-based services
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is expanding appointment-based services at its local offices. The aim is to reduce wait times, streamline service delivery, and improve the overall customer experience, according to a Nov. 15, 2024 SSA press statement. Nearly 400 field offices have already moved to appointment-based service this year. These offices have seen significant improvements in wait times due to more efficient and helpful visitor experiences and increases in the number of customers able to complete their business online, the press statement noted.
The transition period for Alaska offices is now through January 5, 2025. Effective January 6, 2025, customers will be required to schedule an appointment for service in Social Security offices, including requests for Social Security cards. Customers are encouraged to become accustomed to using SSA’s:
- online services, where many transactions can be completed conveniently and securely, and
- automated services available on our National 800# at 1-800-772-1213.
Customers who are not able to handle their business online or with the automated options, may call their local Social Security office or our national number, 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment. Local offices: Anchorage, 1-866-772-3081; Juneau, 1-800-478-7124; Fairbanks, 1-800-478-0391.
“We want to make clear that we will not turn people away for service who are unable to make an appointment or do not want to make an appointment,” noted the press statement. “For example, members of vulnerable populations, military personnel, people with terminal illnesses, and individuals with other situations requiring immediate or specialized attention may still walk in for service at our field offices. Some of our offices also have minimal to no wait times, and they will still serve customers who walk in.”
Social Security to increase attorney fees cap
Effective Nov. 30, 2024, there will be an increase to the fee cap representatives can charge for help when you do business with Social Security. The maximum dollar amount for fee agreements approved by Social Security will increase from $7,200 to $9,200.
If a fee agreement is not filed, a representative can submit a fee petition after completing work on your claim(s). Social Security will review the value of your representative’s services and also let you know the fee your representative is authorized to charge and collect.
For more information, read the Social Security publication, “Your Right to Representation,” at http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10075.pdf.
