Anyone else feel like the whole system is designed to make us give up? 🤔

Hey OP, don't forget to ask about any state-specific programs too. Some states have additional benefits for kids with disabilities.

Quick question - does anyone know if you need to change your name with the DMV first, or can you do Social Security first? I'm getting conflicting info online.

Protip: If you're changing your name cuz of marriage, do it ASAP after the wedding. I waited like a year and it was such a pain to track down all the docs I needed 😫

have u tried emailing them? sometimes thats faster than calling

Lmao good luck. I've been trying to set up an appointment for weeks. At this point I'm convinced their customer service is run by clowns 🤡

Anyone else feel like the whole system is designed to be as frustrating as possible? 🙄 Good luck OP, you're gonna need it

Just a heads up, make sure your parent is okay with you handling their SSA stuff. They might need to sign a form giving you permission to speak on their behalf.

PSA: If you're changing your name, don't forget to update it EVERYWHERE. I'm talking bank accounts, credit cards, voter registration, driver's license, passport, work HR, doctor's offices... the list goes on. It's a pain but worth doing all at once.

Quick question - does anyone know if they're still requiring appointments, or can you just walk in now? The SSA website is super vague about it.

Pro tip: Keep ALL your Medicare correspondence. I learned the hard way that sometimes they make mistakes, and having a paper trail can save you a lot of headaches.

Anyone else feel like we need a degree in bureaucracy just to understand our healthcare bills? 🎓🤦‍♂️

Here's what I've learned after dealing with this for months: 1. Call right when they open. The queue is usually shorter. 2. If you get the survey, hang up and call back immediately. 3. Try different phone numbers if they have multiple listed. 4. Be super nice to the rep when you finally get one. They deal with angry people all day. 5. Have all your info ready before you call. 6. If all else fails, see if you can schedule online or via email. Hope this helps someone! Stay persistent, you'll get through eventually.

am i the only 1 who thinks its crazy we gotta jump through all these hoops just to make a simple appointment??? the system is broken af

Pro tip: Sometimes these sites have a 'force logout' option in the account settings. Look for something like 'end all sessions' or 'logout everywhere'. Might help if you're stuck!

have u tried turning it off and on again? 🤣 jk jk... but seriously, sometimes just closing the browser completely and reopening works wonders

Ive been dealing with this exact issue for WEEKS. its so frustrating!!! i finally got through to someone last thursday and they said it was a 'known issue' theyre working on. fat lot of good that does us tho 🙄

Pro tip: if you can't get through online, try calling your local SSA office instead of the main number. Sometimes they can help you over the phone or set up an in-person appointment if needed. Google 'SSA field office locator' to find the closest one to you.

have u tried faxing them? I know it sounds old school but sometimes it works when nothing else does lol

Just went thru this last month. It's a nightmare but keep pushing. Took me 3 calls and 2 office visits but finally got it straightened out. Hang in there!