The New York Times recently released an article detailing how the pandemic has impacted Social Security offices. In “Social Security Is Rethinking How It Runs Customer Service After Covid,” they delve into how the agency has adapted.

From telework to an increase in the agency’s online offerings, seniors can remotely reach the Social Security administration for many of their needs. However, the pandemic has had a profound effect in certain areas. For example, fewer individuals applied for Supplemental Security Income in 2020 than in 2019. This program helps lower-income seniors among others. During this economic downturn, when many seniors likely need these benefits, office closures might have contributed to this dropoff.

In-Person Visits to Social Security Offices Help Seniors

Connecting in-person with staff members can be helpful for seniors who need to navigate complicated situations relating to their benefits. Sending documents through the mail can rightly cause stress, especially while the postal service has struggled with delays.

Additionally, talking to a staff member over the phone can be a cause for concern. Social Security scams have increased during the pandemic, with some scammers using office closures as an excuse to ask for seniors’ information over the phone. And for many, online resources are not accessible.

How to Navigate Your Benefits While Offices Are Closed

Need to apply for Social Security or Medicare, order a new Social Security card, or change your address with the agency? You can do all that and more by connecting with the Social Security Administration online or by phone. Calling Social Security on your own ensures that you’re connecting with an agency representative. While Social Security offices are likely to start opening as more Americans get vaccinated, it’s helpful to know where to turn in the meantime.

American retirees deserve all of the benefits they’ve earned. NORA believes that after a lifetime of paying into Social Security, seniors should be able to depend on their benefits. That’s why we’re asking Congress to pass The Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act. Learn more about this legislation, sign our petition, and connect with us on Twitter and Facebook for more updates!