HOW TO SPEAK TO A REAL PERSON AT SOCIAL SECURITY

 We live in an automated world and it's hard to speak to a real person on the phone.  Phones are answered by computers and often you hold for the longest time to speak to someone.  Social Security offices are no different.

Here are a few tips on how to reach a real person at Social Security, when you don't know someone's name or extension number:

1.  Avoid the national toll free number and call your local Social Security field office.  Some of these office numbers are listed at the end of this article.

2.  When your call is answered by the automatic greeting, listen until you're asked to dial your party's extension number or Press 2 for more options.  

3.  Press 2.

4.  When the new recording begins, press 0 for an operator.

5.  Hold a few minutes and listen to more recordings until a person has time to pick up and talk to you.  The wait is usually less than 5 minutes.

Information you need to have available to prove you are who you say you are:  Your SSN, Date of Birth, Place of Birth, and Mother's maiden name.  Note:  Social Security will only speak to you about your own account (not a spouse, friend, or someone you are trying to help--unless that person gives them permission).  Social Security doesn't recognize powers of attorney.

SO HERE ARE SOME OF THOSE PHONE NUMBERS:

(All offices use toll free numbers)

Huntsville, AL       (866) 593-0665

Decatur, AL           (888) 289-9185 (Serves Limestone County)

Florence, AL          (855) 884-3407

Albertville, AL       (800) 521-0073

Birmingham, AL    (866) 592-3734

Gadsden, AL           (866) 803-6323

Cullman, AL           (877) 803-6362

Nashville, TN          (877 808-5461

Madison, AL           (866) 965-6302

Chattanooga, TN    (866) 964-0029

Murfreesboro, TN    (866) 593-3112

Tullahoma, TN         (866) 635-0647

Lawrenceburg, TN    (877) 405-5866