The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that individuals who are deaf and hard-of-hearing may apply for benefits immediately when they call the SSA’s national toll free TTY/TDD number:  1-800-325-0778.

“The Social Security Administration wants all Americans to have access to the services we provide,” said Social Security Commissioner Jo Anne Barnhart.  “The agency will continue to develop and implement innovative technology that improves the services we deliver to the public.”

People who are deaf and hard-of-hearing may file immediately for retirement, survivors, Medicare, and lump sum death benefits without an appointment.  Callers may now dial the toll free number Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and file a claim for benefits using a TTY/TDD machine, which enables them to communicate directly with a representative without the need for a local relay system.  Before calling to file an immediate claim, individuals should have certain documents handy:  their birth certificate, most recent W-2, military service DD214, and bank account information.

The paperwork completed by TTY/TDD during the initial contact will be mailed to the applicant for review and a signature.  The applicant may return the printed claim by mail or in person to his or her local Social Security office.  Along with the signed form, SSA also needs certain documents, such as the person’s birth certificate and proof of citizenship or residency, to establish eligibility for benefits.  An applicant can either mail or take these items to Social Security.

For more information about the SSA and its programs, visit Social Security Online www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.  As mentioned above, people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call our toll free TTY number:  1-800-325-0778.

This information was provided by the SSA St. Paul PASS Cadre.