Start with the SSA Representative

For most questions or issues related to Social Security benefits, the best person to talk to initially is an SSA representative. You can reach them by phone, online, or in person.

• Phone: Call the SSA National Toll-Free Number at 1-800-772-1213. This is the primary way to speak with a representative.
• Best Times to Call: Try calling early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid long wait times.
• What They Can Help With: SSA representatives can assist with questions about eligibility, applying for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), SSI (Supplemental Security Income), or Social Security retirement benefits, checking the status of claims, or any general inquiries about your Social Security account.
• Online: You can also use the SSA’s online tools to check your benefits, apply for Social Security, or track the status of a claim. Many issues can be resolved without needing to speak to a person.
• In-Person: If you prefer to meet face-to-face, visit your local SSA office. You can make an appointment by calling ahead or visit the SSA website to locate your nearest office.

Social Security Claims Specialist

If your case is more complex, you may be referred to a Social Security claims specialist. These specialists are experts in handling more detailed or complicated claims.

• When to Speak with a Claims Specialist: If you’ve already filed a claim for Social Security Disability or SSI and need help with the process, have been denied benefits, or have other issues, a claims specialist will be able to help navigate these situations.
• What They Can Help With: They specialize in understanding and processing claims, including handling appeals, addressing complicated eligibility issues, and answering technical questions about Social Security law.

Social Security Disability Advocate or Lawyer

If you’re applying for Social Security Disability benefits or facing challenges in getting your claim approved, a disability advocate or Social Security disability lawyer is the best person to talk to. These professionals specialize in the Social Security Disability process and can improve your chances of approval.

• When to Speak with a Disability Lawyer: You should consider consulting with a disability lawyer if you:
• Have already applied for SSDI or SSI and have been denied.
• Need help appealing a decision or filing a reconsideration.
• Need guidance gathering evidence and supporting documentation for your claim.
• What They Can Help With: Disability lawyers can represent you throughout the application or appeals process, helping with everything from filling out forms to representing you in hearings. They know the Social Security Disability system inside and out and can increase your chances of receiving benefits.

A Social Security Financial Planner or Expert

If you have questions about how Social Security will impact your retirement plans, taxes, or financial situation, you might need to speak with a financial planner or Social Security expert.

• When to Talk to a Financial Planner: If you are nearing retirement age and want to understand the best time to begin claiming Social Security benefits or need advice on how benefits will affect your overall financial situation, a financial advisor specializing in Social Security can help.
• What They Can Help With: They can advise you on how to maximize your Social Security retirement benefits, explain tax implications, and help with retirement planning in conjunction with your Social Security benefits.

Medicare or Medicaid Representatives

If you are approaching age 65 or have a disability that qualifies you for Medicare or Medicaid benefits, the best person to talk to is a Medicare representative.

• When to Talk to Medicare: You’ll need to speak with a Medicare representative if you’re signing up for Medicare or have questions about how Medicare interacts with Social Security Disability benefits.
• What They Can Help With: These representatives specialize in Medicare enrollment, understanding eligibility, coverage options, and Medicaid assistance for low-income individuals.

A Social Security Representative for Veterans (If Applicable)

If you are a veteran and are seeking Social Security Disability benefits or have questions about how your Veteran’s Affairs (VA) benefits interact with Social Security, a Veterans Social Security Representative may be the right person to speak with.

• When to Talk to a Veterans Representative: If you're applying for SSDI and are a veteran, you may need specific guidance on how SSDI benefits are coordinated with your VA benefits or any special rules for veterans.
• What They Can Help With: Veterans representatives are knowledgeable about the process of applying for SSDI with VA benefits and can assist with claims or appeals that involve both.