Social Security Resuming In-Person Services, Manchester Residents Told

MANCHESTER, NJ — Manchester Township residents who need the assistance of the Social Security Administration can get help in person again.

Manchester Township officials shared an announcement from the Social Security Administration about the resumption of in-person services:

“I am pleased to announce that local Social Security offices will restore in-person services, including for people without an appointment, on April 7, 2022," the statement from Kilolo Kijakazi, acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration.

"To avoid waiting in line, I strongly encourage people who can to use our online services at www.socialsecurity.gov, call us, and schedule appointments in advance rather than walking in without an appointment. Phone appointments can save you a trip to a busy office."

"I thank the public for your patience as we work to increase service," the statement said.

The offices tend to be the busiest first thing in the morning, early in the week, and during the early part of the month. People who walk in without appointments may have longer wait times

"Given that many of the people we serve have health vulnerabilities, and consistent with our union agreements, we are continuing to require certain safety measures including masking, physical distancing, and self-health checks for COVID-19 symptoms," the statement said. "We will provide masks to the public and employees if they need them."

The statement said there have been several measures taken to serve the community, including bringing back retired employees to help meet the needs.

The Social Security Administration is transitioning to a new modern phone system and officials are warning that may mean a busy signal or callers being unintentionally disconnected from their call.

"We sincerely regret this disruption and recommend people call when our National 800 Number may be less busy, such as before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. local time or later in the week. Like our offices, our waits are generally shorter later in the month," the statement said.

For more information, check out the Online Services page or the Get Help page on the Social Security website. Most Social Security services do not require the public to take time to visit an office. People may create their my Social Security account, a personalized online service, at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

A my Social Security account provides access to additional personalized services, such as requesting a replacement Social Security card online, setting up direct deposit, or get proof of benefits.

People not yet receiving benefits can use their online account to get a personalized Social Security Statement, which provides their earnings information as well as estimates of their future benefits. The portal also includes a retirement calculator and links to information about other online services, such as applications for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits.

Many Social Security services are also conveniently available by dialing toll-free, 1‑800‑772‑1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1‑800‑325‑0778.

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