Resolving Social Security Number Issues: What to Do When SSA Has No Record

Hello, I am having an issue with Social Security, they say that my SS number is not correct and that they have no record of me. I have been to the office on numerous occasions with as much documentation as I have, and they always send me back for more. The most recent time they asked for my elementary school records (from the early 1960s) which I have been unable to obtain. This has been going on for years and now I need to enroll in Medicare before my 65th birthday in September and I can’t move forward with that. Is this something that you have seen before, and do you have advice as to how best to correct it? Thank you very much in advance!

This is an unusual and challenging situation. Here’s some guidance on how to proceed:

1. Social Security Card and Employment History:

   • Verify Your SSN: If you have a Social Security card and have worked under Social Security-covered employment, you should gather any documentation that shows your SSN has been used correctly in the past. This could include old tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs.
   • Employer Verification: If the Social Security Administration (SSA) believes your SSN belongs to someone else, they may need to review the employers who reported earnings under that number. You could work with SSA to verify whether any of these employers were yours.

2. Elementary School Records Request:

   • Why This Request? It’s unclear why SSA is asking for your elementary school records from the 1960s, as this is not a common request. Typically, SSA would ask for documents like a birth certificate, passport, or tax records to verify identity.
   • Alternative Documents: If you cannot obtain these records, ask SSA what alternative documentation could be provided instead. It may help to bring any other forms of identification or records that establish your identity and history in the U.S.

3. Seek Congressional Assistance:

   • Contact Your Local Congressional Office: Given that this issue has been ongoing for years with little progress, I strongly recommend reaching out to your local Congressional office for assistance. Congressional staff can intervene on your behalf with SSA, often speeding up the process and helping to resolve complex issues like this.

4. Medicare Enrollment Deadline:

   • Urgency for Medicare Enrollment: With your 65th birthday approaching in September, it’s crucial to resolve this quickly. Emphasize to both SSA and your Congressional office that your Medicare enrollment is at risk, which may prompt faster action.

In summary, while this situation is quite rare, focusing on gathering alternative documentation, verifying your employment history, and seeking Congressional help may be the most effective way to resolve it. Time is of the essence, especially with your upcoming Medicare deadline.

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.