How To Apply For My Benefits
When applying for any kind of benefits you need to check the qualifying criteria, your income level, your citizenship, as well as other factors. You need to contact the Social Security Administration to set up an appointment, provide the correct documents, and fill out the application form.
Depending on the benefits you apply for the process could be slightly different. However most benefits applications include the following steps:
Application Process For Specific Social Security Benefits
I have written in-depth articles on the application process involved for each of the SSAs benefits. Each article covers who qualifies, the documents you need to collect, the application form, the wait time, and what to do once you are approved:
- To learn how you can apply for Retirement benefits please click this link. You will be directed to an informative article I have written to answer relevant questions about applying for retirement benefits.
- To learn more about applying for Disability benefits please click here. This article covers who is eligible and how you can apply.
Contact The Social Security Administration Toll
The Social Security Administration provides toll-free National 800 number service to members of the public. Representatives are available between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday at 1-800-772-1213. The agency advises that wait times are typically shorter later in the day and Wednesdays through Fridays.
Spanish speakers can receive assistance by calling the same toll-free number and informing the pre-recorded system or representative that they would like to talk to a representative in Spanish.
For those who cannot make a call during these times, recorded information and services are available 24 hours a day and on weekends.
When You Should Update Deers
Update DEERS whenever you have a change :
- Change in sponsor’s status:
- Retiring or from active duty
- National Guard or Reserve member activation or deactivation
- Change in service status
If you’re enrolled in any TRICARE plan remember to also change your address and other personal information with your regional contractor.
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Who Is Eligible For Social Security
The following people are eligible to receive social security benefits:
Governor Cooper Announces State Boards And Commissions Appointments

Governor Roy Cooper announced North Carolina boards and commissions appointments today.
Gov. Cooper has appointed the following individual to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission:
- Michael H. Wray of Gaston as a member who is a legislator. Wray is a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives representing Halifax, Northampton, and Warren counties. He has represented the area since 2005.
Gov. Cooper is appointing the following individuals to the newly created North Carolina Board of Barber and Electrolysis Examiners effective January 1, 2023:
Gov. Cooper has appointed the following individual to the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Act of 2003:
- Grayson Lane Barnette of Lenoir as a member at-large. Barnette is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Foothills Conservancy in Morganton, a nonprofit land trust and environmental conservation organization.
Gov. Cooper has appointed the following individuals to the North Carolina Brain Injury Advisory Council:
- Dr. Glenn Edward Johnson of Winterville as a member who is a survivor of a brain injury from Eastern North Carolina. Johnson is a retired corrections officer.
- Dr. Kevin E. Burroughs of Concord as a brain injury service provider in the private sector. Dr. Burroughs is a Sports Medicine Specialist providing musculoskeletal and sports medicine care for all ages and skill levels.
Gov. Cooper has appointed the following individual to the North Carolina State Building Commission:
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Where Are The Social Security Offices In North Carolina Located
North Carolina has a few Social Security offices located in various cities throughout the state. You will likely want to schedule your appointment at the one that is closest to your location. However, remember that appointments are limited, so it could take some time to get an appointment at a specific location. Driving to another city might allow you to get an appointment more quickly. The Social Security Administration has also announced that offices will be reopening in March 2022, so you will no longer need an appointment to visit your local office at that time.
A Guide To Your Local Ssa Office Visit
The Social Security Administration local office is the location that handles all types of Social Security claims and applications, from retirement to Social Security Disability Insurance to Supplemental Security Income . When you visit, you can get more help if you have questions ready for the representative who serves you.
Use these tips to ensure your SSA trip goes as smoothly as possible, with few hassles and hiccups. It helps to go prepared.
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How To Replace My Social Security Card Or My Medicare Card
If you are over 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have a U.S. mailing address you can request to replace your card online. If you are requesting a name change or any other information to be changed on your card you will need to go to the Social Security office in person.
You can log into your Social Security account and go to request a replacement Social Security number card.
To learn how long the process takes and the information you need to provide the SSA read How To Obtain/Replace My Social Security Card.
How To Check The Status Of My Benefits Application
Once you have submitted the application for your benefits you need to wait for Social Security process the application and come to a decision. This could take a few days to a few months.
It depends on what benefit you are applying for, the information you provide, and the number of applications that are currently being processed.
If you would like to confirm your application status you can log into your my Social Security account and check from there.
Or you could call the Social Security office yourself and request information on your claim.
Each benefits application article I have written will provide details on how to check your applications status.
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My Social Security Card Was Lost/stolen What Should I Do
If your Social Security card has been lost or stolen, you need to act immediately! You will need to request a replacement card, but you should also take the proper steps to prevent identity theft. Thieves could use your information to apply for loans, obtain credit cards, or file fraudulent tax returns in your name. You should place a fraud alert on your Social Security number and keep a watch on your credit report. Also be aware of scams that attempt to steal your SSN.
Social Security Office 28269 Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Local Phone Number For The Social Security Office In 28269 ?
You can call toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 .
What Services Can The Local 28269 Social Security Office Provide?
- Apply for a Social Security number
- Check on your earnings record
- Apply for Social Security benefits, SSI, hospital insurance protection, and extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs
Note: There is no charge for the services of the SSA office staff.
How Do I Apply For A New Or Replacement Social Security Number In 28269 ?
You can use a my Social Security account to request a replacement Social Security card online if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen age 18 years or older with a U.S. mailing address
- Are not requesting a name change or any other change to your card and
- Have a drivers license or a state-issued identification card from one of the states listed.
You must show the required documents if you cannot apply for a card online. We need to see different documents depending on your citizenship and the type of card you request.See Learn What Documents You Need to find out what documents you must show. Fill out and print an Application for a Social Security Card and take or mail your application and documents to your local Social Security office.
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My Social Security Card Was Lost/stolen What Do I Do
If your Social Security card has been lost or stolen, you can request a replacement card online through your My Social Security account. Requesting your card online will usually allow you to receive your new card within 10 to 14 days. In addition to requesting a new card, you should also keep a close eye on your credit report. Identity thieves may attempt to use your information to establish credit or new accounts in your name. Sign up for a credit monitoring service and put a fraud alert on your Social Security number with the major credit bureaus. If someone has already tried to use your information, then you might even consider placing a credit freeze on your SSN.
Updating Your Contact Information

Contact information includes your address, email addresses or phone number. Family members can update contact information after they’re registered in DEERS.
- Fax updates to 1-800-336-4416 or 1-502-335-9980
- Mail updates to:
- Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office Attn: COA
Note: Addresses must be a physical address P.O. boxes can’t be used.
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Va Health Care Eligibility And Copays
Do I have to pay VA health care copayments at this time?
We canceled and refunded copayments for all medical care and pharmacy services received through VA between and We also paused collection of unpaid copayments for services or medications received before April 6, 2020, during this time. We took these actions to offer relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As of , weve started to collect copayments again. We continue to offer financial hardship assistance. If you have questions, contact our Health Resource Center at . Were here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
If Ive lost my job or health insurance, can I get VA health care?
We base eligibility for VA health care on several factors, like your military service, discharge status, and whether you have a service-connected disability.
If youve lost your job or have a reduced income, you may qualify for enhanced eligibility status based on your income. This means well place you in a higher priority group, which makes you more likely to get benefits and affects how much youll need to pay for care.
Call us at to find out what your care options may be. Were here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET.
If Ive lost my job, can I get help with my VA copays over time?
You can also call our Health Resource Center at to talk to someone about your options.
Can I Still Schedule A Burial At A National Cemetery
Yes. To schedule an interment, contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at . VA national cemeteries remain open for direct interments of Veterans and eligible dependents.
Families must follow all COVID-19 safety requirements for attendee limits, masks, and physical distancing.
If you would like to cancel or postpone an interment thats already scheduled, please contact the cemetery directly to cancel the service and to reschedule future services when ready.
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Delivering For North Carolinians
Since taking office in January 2015, my office has resolved over 42,000 cases on behalf of North Carolinians.
9,300+ Veterans Assisted
Are you a veteran in need of assistance? My office has resolved more than 9,300 cases for North Carolina veterans on a wide range of issues, from helping secure appointments at the VA to resolving pending disability claims. If youre a veteran, or you know a veteran who is having any issues with the VA, please make sure the next call you make is to my office.
4,500+ S.S. & Medicare Recipients Assisted
Are you a Social Security or Medicare beneficiary? If youre having issues receiving your Social Security or Medicare benefits, please contact my office. We have resolved over 4,500 cases for North Carolinians who needed assistance with these programs, and we stand ready to help you navigate through the bureaucracy and red tape.
7,000+ Immigration Cases
Do you or a relative need help with an immigration-related issue? My office has resolved more than 7,000 cases for North Carolinians with the Department of State and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
9,000+ Passports Expedited
Are you traveling out of the country? My staff has assisted in expediting passports for more than 9,000 North Carolinians. If youre traveling out of the country in the next six weeks, contact my office. For more information on expediting your passport, click here:
How Do I Apply For Disability Benefits
If you need to apply for disability benefits, you have a few options. You can apply online, over the phone, or at your local office. The online application is the quickest and easiest way, but the other methods are available should you need them. Should you need to apply over the phone, simply call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 .
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How To Appeal The Ssas Decision If I Am Denied Benefits
You can file for an appeal online in your my Social Security account. You need to fill in your information and complete the appropriate form. In some cases, you can request an appeal in person at your local Social Security office.
If you have any questions about applying for an appeal or escalating the appeals process you can contact your local Social Security office.
To learn more about fees, wait times, and the requirements of filing an appeal visit How To Appeal An SSA Decision And Check The Status Of An Appeal. That article mentions the specific forms you will need to fill out to escalate an appeal.
How To Check My Earning Records With The Ssa
You can get your earning records from the SSA online or by mail. It is recommended that you view your earning records before applying for benefits. That way you can confirm your benefits will be calculated correctly.
To find your earning records follow these steps:
To read more about the documents you can use to verify your earning records, read my article How To Check My Earning Records And Adjust Them If Necessary provides step-by-step directions for accessing and adjusting your earning records.
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Online Social Security Services
Throughout the pandemic, the SSA has expanded the number of services that can be completed online. Before many applicants needed to visit an Social Security office to apply for benefits, now you can apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits online.
Additionally, the site allows beneficiaries to check the status of your claim or appeal,request a replacement Social Security card in most states, get an instant proof of income letter, and much more.
Remarkable Outcomes For North Carolinians

Lonnie, a former U.S. Army Drill Sergeant, had been working with one of my constituent advocates for years on issues with the VA. After being diagnosed with a terminal illness, Lonnie thought he would never accomplish his lifelong goal becoming a Marine. While Lonnie loved training recruits for the Army, he always felt the Marines didnt play around. After hearing his story, my staff contacted the Marines at Parris Island to set up a two-day, behind-the-scenes visit to the infamous Marine training facility. Working with the Greensboro Rotary Club and the non-profit Angel Flight, Lonnie was able to fly down to Parris Island to experience the training program first-hand. Lonnie was even awarded the Tan Belt in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of dozens of people, including my staff, this veteran was able to serve his country once again.
Lonnie pictured returning from Parris Island.
Lonnie on the flight returning from Parris Island.
Phil, a 96-year-old WWII Purple Heart veteran, contacted my office in need of a VA pension with aid and attendance benefits and assistance with a service-connected disability claim. Phil and his family had previously been unsuccessful in getting the claims resolved with the VA. My staff immediately went to work, obtaining military records to be used in support of his claim. My staff then contacted the VA and were successful in scheduling an expedited exam for Phil.
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