Many people have asked how Social Security is operating now that we are several months into COVID-19. Here are some updates for how the process is currently working at Social Security. If you have questions or need assistance, please call the Law Office of Sarah Crosby for more information.
New Applicants
Although Social Security offices remain closed, new applicants can still file for disability or retirement benefits online at www.SSA.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Before starting an application, it is helpful to have a list of your doctors, including their addresses and phone numbers.
Claimants with disability claims pending at the initial or reconsideration stages
The disability determination bureaus are processing disability claims. However, if the adjudicators decide they need you to see one of Social Security's doctors for a consultative examination, your claim may be delayed for processing.
Physical consultative examinations are currently on hold due to COVID-19. Social Security is allowing some psychological consultative examinations to take place via video. Unfortunately there is no current timeline for when physical consultative examinations may resume.
Claimants with disability claims pending at the hearings level.
Social Security is currently conducting all hearings via telephone. We have heard from some hearings offices that in-person hearings may not resume until 2021. You have the right to decide whether you want to wait for an in-person hearing or move forward with a telephonic hearing. A lawyer can help answer questions about which might be the best option for you. Contact the Law Office of Sarah Crosby if you have questions about your hearing.