Be Polite And Patient
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. Your patience and kindness will go a long way to helping you get the service you deserve and getting all your questions answered.
While you are being polite, also be persistent. Its okay to ask a question more than once if you dont understand the answer.
Top Questions To Ask A Lawyer
- What is the usual process to resolve my case? How long will it take to resolve this?
- What are likely outcomes of a case like mine? What should I expect?
An experienced lawyer should be able to communicate a basic road map on how to proceed. The lawyer should be able to walk you through the anticipated process, key considerations, and potential pitfalls to avoid. Once youve laid out the facts of your situation to the lawyer, he/she should be able to frame expectations and likely scenarios to help you understand your legal issue.
How Do I Know If Social Security Is Calling Me
If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be Social Security beware. You can call Social Securitys customer service line at 800-772-1213 to confirm whether a communication purporting to be from SSA is real. If you get an impostor call or email, report it to SSA using their detailed online form.
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What Is Social Security
In 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act. This new federal legislature started the collecting of taxes in 1937. Since then, working citizens across the United States began paying into social security in order to have a form of guaranteed income once they reached retirement age.
The Social Security Act was initially meant to be a form of basic retirement for working individuals. However, in 1939, an amendment was made to the act that allowed spouses and/or children to begin receiving social security survivor benefits if a parent or spouse was deceased and qualified for social security income.
Sc Freedom Of Information Act
S.C. Freedom of Information Act
Chapter 4, Title 30, South Carolina Code of Laws
The City of Myrtle Beach is committed to transparency of government action and operation, along with open access to public documents, as provided for in the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act , below. As a result, the city strives to grant access to public documents and records quickly and, in most cases, at no cost as part of our first in service philosophy.
- Search, retrieval and redaction of records… actual per-hour dollar cost of staff time required
- Black-and-white photocopies … 10 cents per page
- Color photocopies … 20 cents per page
- CD or DVD copy… $5
- USB/Thumb Drive copy… $15
- Large city map … $20
- Small city map … $10
- If oversized documents or large quantities are sent to a third party for copying, the requestor will be charged the actual dollar amount of the invoice for the work, in addition to any staff time.
A public body is not required to create an electronic version of a public record when one does not exist to fulfill a records request.
The following records of a public body must be made available for public inspection and copying during the hours of operations of the public body, unless the record is exempt pursuant to Section 30-4-40 or other state or federal laws, without the requestor being required to make a written request to inspect or copy the records when the requestor appears in person:
would interfere with a prospective law enforcement proceeding
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Prepare For Your Ssa Appointment
When preparing for your Social Security phone appointment you need to prepare a few things.
This list should be a good start:
Once you have everything together, sit back and wait for the phone to ring.
Show Up With Your Documents
When you call for the appointment, be sure to ask the Claims Specialist which forms you should bring, and take notes. It may require some time to locate your documents, but if you cannot find all of them, bring what you have.
If you forget a document or cant find it, you may need to make another trip so its worth checking the notes you took while speaking with the Claims Specialist.
You should always bring your Social Security Card and a copy of any personal identifying information . If you have a US passport or US birth certificate, take them with you.
If you are not a US citizen or are naturalized, bring all documentation relating to your temporary or permanent resident status to your appointment.
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What Kind Of Documentation Do I Need To Bring
The documentation that you need to bring along varies depending on what it is you are trying to do. At a minimum, you will need some form of identification. This might be a driver’s license, U.S. Passport, or state-issued non-driver’s identification card. You might also need your current Social Security card and even your birth certificate. It is usually best to take everything you can even if you are not sure whether you need it. It is better to carry documentation that is not needed than to arrive without the proper documentation.
Social Security Office In Myrtle Beach Sc 29577
The Myrtle Beach, SC Social Security Office #592 is located at 611 BURROUGHS AND CHAPIN BLVD, SUITE 301 in the 29577 zip code area. It serves all Myrtle Beach and Horry County residents and can be reached at .
This Social Security Office Administration in Myrtle Beach, SC can provide help with disability benefits, Social Security benefits, new Social Security card, temporary and replacement Social Security card for a lost card, and more.
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What Documents Will I Need To Provide
When collecting the documents you will need to apply for your benefits to confirm they are correct. The Social Security Administration will accept photocopies for certain documents but other documents may need to be original.
Generally, you must provide proof of age, income, work history, identity, and citizenship. To learn more about the documents you will need to provide read the article What Documents Must I Provide The Social Security Administration When Applying For Benefits.
Confirm Your Documents Are Correct
To confirm you have the correct documents cross-reference with a list of required documents. Double-check, incorrect documentation is a common reason for an application to be rejected.
Refer to the What Documents Must I Provide The Social Security Administration When Applying For Benefits to find a list of documents. You can use this list to cross-reference.
Calendar Your Ssa Appointment
Making an appointment is simple: call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday between 7 am and 7 pm. The best time to call is first thing in the morning or in the last hour of the day, from 6-7 pm.
An SSA employee will give you a call back if you leave a message before the office opens at 9 am. Set up your appointment, and do your best to keep it. The sooner you get there, the faster you can begin your application process. Write the date and time in your calendar and make it a priority.
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How To Check The Status Of My Benefits Application
Once you have submitted the application for your benefits you need to wait for Social Security process the application and come to a decision. This could take a few days to a few months.
It depends on what benefit you are applying for, the information you provide, and the number of applications that are currently being processed.
If you would like to confirm your application status you can log into your my Social Security account and check from there.
Or you could call the Social Security office yourself and request information on your claim.
Each benefits application article I have written will provide details on how to check your applications status.
How Do I Apply For Disability Benefits
If you need to apply for disability benefits, you have a few options. You can apply online, over the phone, or at your local office. The online application is the quickest and easiest way, but the other methods are available should you need them. Should you need to apply over the phone, simply call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 .
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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. For this reason, everyone should bring a list of questions.
Give some thought to what you dont understand about the disability or retirement process, and write it down. There is no such thing as a dumb question!
Your goal is to make sure everything gets answered. Some examples of good questions to ask if you are applying for disability:
- Should I apply for SSI or SSDI? Whats the difference?
- Where do I apply?
- How long will it take for me to find out the decision?
- What medical information will I need?
- What information do I need to show my work history?
- What are work credits?
- What documents will I need to prove my income?
- What documents will I need to prove my resources?
What Is The Difference Between Ssdi And Ssi
Social Security Insurance differs from SSDI in a few ways. SSDI typically pays more, but has stricter eligibility criteria. Whereas SSDI generally only applies to people who have worked before and have severe disability, SSI can apply to people who are over the age of 65, legally blind, or who have a severe disability. However, people who meet those qualifications arent eligible for SSI unless theyre also on very limited income. Those who receive SSI will usually qualify for Medicaid soon after theyre approved for SSI, but SSDI recipients may need to wait about two years for Medicaid.
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My Social Security Card Was Lost/stolen What Should I Do
If your Social Security card has been lost or stolen, you need to act immediately! You will need to request a replacement card, but you should also take the proper steps to prevent identity theft. Thieves could use your information to apply for loans, obtain credit cards, or file fraudulent tax returns in your name. You should place a fraud alert on your Social Security number and keep a watch on your credit report. Also be aware of scams that attempt to steal your SSN.
How Long Does It Take To Get Social Security Disability
The SSA says that applicants should expect it to take three to five months before they receive a decision about their case. If you send incomplete or incorrect information in your application, that could delay your decision. You should send in all the requested materials as soon as possible to decrease your wait time. In some cases, you may be asked to provide follow-up information for a review, which may also add a few more months before your case is approved or formally denied. If they accept your application, you can generally expect to start receiving payments in one to two months.
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How Long Does A Social Security Disability Review Take
If youre required to complete a Social Security Disability Review, theyll usually send you a short-form or a long-form review application. The process for the long-form usually takes four to six months, though it may a bit shorter or longer depending on the circumstances. The short-form review often takes one to three months, give or take. For both versions of the review youll need to provide some requested documentation about your identity and disability, and information about your work history. In the long-form version, you many need to provide more extensive medical records and will have additional forms to fill out. In both cases, you may be asked to participate in periodic follow ups.
What Are The Most Common Social Security Or Medicare Scams
Scammers will try many different scams to get your personal information. They are specifically looking for an identification number. Once they have that information they will use it to steal your identity or steal money.
This list includes some of the most common scams:
How To Protect My Personal Information And Social Security Number?
Protecting your personal information is vital. Ensure all documents are in a safe and secure location. Learn how to recognize and avoid common scams.
Be vigilant when you receive a phone call from someone claiming to work for the government. A Social Security officer will NEVER threaten you or say you will go to jail if you do not give them your personal information.
To learn more about common scams and how you can protect yourself read the article Avoid Social Security Fraud And Medicare Scams.
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An Office Visit Is Worth Your Time
Many people find that visiting the SSA office is the best way to get the help they need, and this is especially true of people who are unfamiliar with computers or the internet. The Claims Specialists are trained to answer questions about the process, and are there to help you with the most common reasons people visit the office: Social Security Disability applications, retirement benefits, and Social Security cards.
Its worth the time to go to the field office, but be sure to make an appointment, come prepared, ask questions, and find out what your next move is.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For Social Security
Documents the Social Security Administration may ask for include:
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How Can I Check My Social Security Benefits
The easiest way to check your benefits is by logging into your My Social Security account online through www.SSA.gov. Once you get logged into your account, you can view benefit statements, benefit estimates, earnings history, and the status of any pending applications. That site should be your go-to for any information related to your Social Security account.
Points To Consider Before Hiring A Lawyer
Experience. Regardless of the type of legal matter you need help with, an experienced attorney will usually be able to get you better results.
Competence. Determine an attorneys expertise by asking about their track record for the issue you need help with resolving.
Fit. There are plenty of good attorneys out there make sure you find one you are comfortable working with.
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How To Set Up A Phone Appointment
You cannot schedule a phone appointment with Social Security online. To set up a phone appointment with the SSA you can call 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 am 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
Or you can locate your local Social Security Office in Myrtle Beach, and contact their phone number. Once you speak to a live person, request a phone appointment with an SSA agent. You may need to leave your phone number to be contacted by a specific agent to schedule the appointment.
Locate your local office by clicking this link.
To Find Your Local Uscis Office Please Visit The Following Links:
- Field Offices handle scheduled interviews on non-asylum related applications. They also provide limited information and applicant services by appointment that supplement those we provide through our website and by phone.
- Asylum Offices handle scheduled interviews for asylum-related issues only
- International Offices provide services to U.S. Citizens, permanent residents of the U.S. and certain other persons who are visiting or residing outside the United States who need assistance in immigration matters.
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How Do I Apply For Social Security Benefits
You will need to complete an application for benefits. This can be done online, in person, or over the phone. The application process is necessary whether you are applying for retirement or disability benefits. You will need your Social Security number and other required documentation to complete your application.
How To Replace My Social Security Card Or My Medicare Card
If you are over 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have a U.S. mailing address you can request to replace your card online. If you are requesting a name change or any other information to be changed on your card you will need to go to the Social Security office in person.
You can log into your Social Security account and go to request a replacement Social Security number card.
To learn how long the process takes and the information you need to provide the SSA read How To Obtain/Replace My Social Security Card.
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