Social Security offices open for in-person service

Local Social Security offices restored in-person services on Apr. 7, according to SSA Acting Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi, including for people with no appointment..

Local Social Security offices are in Carbondale, Harrisburg and Mt. Vernon.

Still, "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," said Kijakazi.

"Phone appointments can save you a trip to a busy office. I thank the public for its patience as we work to increase service.

Kijakazi said that customers without appointments may encounter delays and longer waits, adding that "offices tend to be the busiest first thing in the morning, early in the week, and during the early part of the month, so people may want to plan to visit at other times."

Kijakazi also said that offices will continue certain safety measures.

"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," he said. "We will provide masks to the public and employees if they need them."

Kijakazi also said that callers may experience some problems as the offices transition to a new phone system. Some people may experience a busy signal or be unintentionally disconnected from their call. He suggested that customers should call during less busy times, such as before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. or even later in the week.

Kijakazi also said that phones waits are generally shorter later in the month.

To learn more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/gethelp/ and www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices/.