18
Mar

Social Security Offices, Hearings, Etc.

Effective March 17, 2020, all Social Security offices will only offer phone services. All hearing offices are closed to the public, including claimants and representatives. Social Security’s Office of Hearing Operations (OHO) will contact claimants and their representatives who are currently scheduled for an in-person hearing with the option of having a phone hearing, or they will permit anyone who is currently scheduled (or was scheduled) for an in-person hearing to postpone and reschedule for a later time. This means that claimants are not required to proceed with phone hearings. However there is currently no time frame for when in-person hearings can or will be rescheduled, although critical cases will be prioritized.
If you are applying for SSD benefits you can still apply on-line. If you are applying for SSI benefits you can still apply via phone. If you need to do an interview with Social Security to process your SSI benefits you can schedule a phone interview.
Please remember that callers who are legitimate Social Security employees will NEVER threaten suspension of your Social Security Number or request payment from you of any kind. Scammers will continue to try to take advantage while this current situation unfolds.
If we are handling your hearing we will contact you to discuss your options. It is important you maintain good communication with us and be available to receive calls during the current situation.

Current Benefits

If you are currently receiving benefits there should be no disruption to your current payments. If you are waiting for Social Security to process a favorable decision and start your benefits be assured Social Security Employees are still working (in office and from home) and processing claims and benefits.

Our Office Remains Open

As of today our staff continue to work on your behalf in our office. However we have instituted some changes with everyone’s safety and well being in mind:

1. Effective Immediately we have suspended in-person conferences in our office. All contact will be conducted by phone. If you have documents or paperwork that needs to be returned to our office please use the enclosed SASE included in our mailings to you. If you do not have a SASE from us contact us at 248-350-1000 and we will send you one.
2. You can contact us anytime via phone – 248-350-1000, email – central@ssrights.com, or fax – 248-350-0504.
3. In the event that we do temporarily close our office, be assured that we will continue to work off-site. We will be available and responsive to your communications and your case will be fully handled in all aspects.