Social Security Administration

History of the Social Security Administration

When the Social Security Administration (SSA) was first established, it was known as the Social Security Board (SSB). The SSB was a new entity created to support the Social Security Act. Initially, there was no staff, no facilities and no budget. Personnel and funds were donated by other agencies and the Federal Emergency Relief Administration.

Many changes have been made over the years in regards to how the administration is run. SSA went from an independent agency to a sub-cabinet agency and then back to an independent agency once more.

Today, SSA has ten regional offices and 1300 local offices nationwide. The administration is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland and employs a staff of more than 65,000 people. The mission statement displayed on the SSA website indicates their desire to "Advance the economic security of the nation's people through compassionate and vigilant leadership in shaping and managing America's Social Security programs."

Programs and Services

The Social Security Administration is an important agency, offering a wide array of programs and services. Their main responsibilities include issuing Social Security cards and numbers, administering the Supplemental Security Income program, and paying retirement, disability, and survivor's benefits to eligible parties.

Social Security Cards

A Social Security number acts as a taxpayer identification number for most Americans. This nine-digit number appears on Social Security cards issued by SSA. There are three basic types of cards:

• Card #1: This card is the most common and features an individual's name and Social Security number. Those who have this card are entitled to work in the U.S. without restriction.
• Card #2: This card is reserved for lawful non-citizens who do not have DHS permission to work, but are required by law to provide a Social Security number. A name and number also appears on this card.
• Card #3: This card is specifically for people who have DHS permission to work temporarily in the United States. A name and number also appears on this card.

Social Security Benefits

SSA also administers benefits to those who are disabled and to those who are eligible for retirement and death benefits. To find out if you qualify for benefits, you can contact the SSA and fill out an application.

Contacting the Social Security Administration

If you need to contact the Social Security Administration, you can visit them on the web at www.ssa.gov. While online, you can:

• See which Social Security programs you are eligible for.
• Estimate future benefits.
• Request a personal earnings report and benefits estimate.
• Apply for Social Security Retirement, Spouse, or Disability benefits.
• Apply for extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs.
• Get a replacement Medicare card.
• Check the status of your online application.
• Complete a disability appeal form.
• Change your address, telephone number, or direct deposit information.
• Request a proof of income letter.

The SSA also encourages you to call their toll free number between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday: 800-772-1213. If you would prefer to talk to someone in person, you can also contact your local SSA office.

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