I was recently having trouble getting my local Social Security office to process some Social Security forms. After multiple attempts to resolve the problem via telephone and mail, I simply went down to the local Social Security office on Academy Boulevard.
The counter person was polite, but ultimately got tired of dealing with me because I would not leave the documents to be processed “later.”
So, I was told to sit down and wait, someone would get to me “later.” When I asked if someone would see me before Social Security closed, I was told again to just have a seat. The discussion was getting heated and the security guard was starting to circle my position.
Rather than risk being arrested, I sat down. I did not hold out much hope. I figured the counter attendant was just punishing me for being demanding. I would probably have to sit there all day, and then be told to leave when closing time rolled around. But I was determined, so I sat and reviewed cases I had .
In case you are thinking, “But you are an attorney! Don’t lawyers get better treatment?” The short answer is, no, we do not get treated any better than anyone else. We know the system and we know the rules and can help you show how your case fits into a rule that may get you approved. But, when it comes to going down to a Social Security office, we get treated just the same as everyone else.
Back to the story… After about and hour and a half, I was called back. Rosina M., one of the claims representatives, met with me and reviewed the paperwork that had not been processed. By the time I left, everything was on the right track.
There are a number of very helpful and dedicated people working at Social Security (if you can just get their attention).
Thank you Rosina M. for your help!
