Social Security Administration confirms claims can be done over phone

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - The Social Security Administration confirmed that beginning on April 14, claims will be able to be completed over the phone.

Representatives from the American Association of Retired Persons in North Dakota (AARP ND) say previously, the Administration had announced it would require in-person visits for certain types of claims. The AARP voiced its concerns, saying a policy like that could harm people living in rural states like North Dakota.

“That’s extremely important in a rural state like North Dakota, where— I believe it’s 13,000 individuals— live at least 180 miles from the nearest social security office,” said Josh Askvig, State Director of AARP ND.

He says their work isn’t done, though. He says the Administration service has declined significantly during the past year; some people say they’ve waited up to two and a half hours multiple days in a row before receiving service.