What disability claimants get angry about - Part II   This is probably one of the most common grievances held by Social Security Disability and SSI disability claimants---not getting calls returned. Disability claimants routinely do not receive call backs from the social security office and sometimes not even from disability examiners. Why does this happen? Well, in my own opinion, disability examiners have less justification for not returning calls to claimants because they're not really deluged with public contact. For the most part, they're left alone to work undisturbed in their cubicles all day long, reading MER (medical evidence of record) and completing writeups to present to their unit consultants (medical and psychological). Social security field office claims reps, on the other hand, have a horrible job--too much work and not enough warm bodies to get it all done without significant ongoing stress and anxiety. Quite literally, they barely have time to get their work done and with increased agency attrition and a failure to adequately makeup for attrition, this will only get worse. Just the same, though, none of this is a claimant's responsiblity. If a claimant has a question and leaves a message, they should receive a timely response. So, what do you do if you are a claimant and your fifteen calls have not been returned over the last two weeks? Call and ask to speak to a supervisor or, if you can stomach the thought of making a trip down to the social security office, do so. In-person visits are sometimes more effective. Finally, it should be noted that individuals using a disability attorney or a non-attorney disability representative can simply have that individual contact either the Social security office or DDS (disability determinatio services, where examiners are based), or even the hearing office to obtain any information their client seeks to obtain. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Why Does It Take So Long To Get A Call Back From The Social Security Office? Will the the SSA Examiner Call or Contact me about my Social Security Disability or SSI Claim? Disability Claim Status - You may not hear from SSA for long periods Can I Talk To the Disability Examiner Working On My Case? When does a case go to the Social Security Disability review board? How long will an SSI or SSDI disability claim take? Using a lawyer to potentially speed up the disability appeal process Speeding up the Social Security Disability or SSI Claim Process Social Security Award Letter and being due a substantial back pay amount Reasons to get a representative who specializes in disability claims only When you apply for Social Security Disability should you send copies of your xrays? Getting approved for disability based on being blind How to answer questions at a Social Security Disability CE examination What disability claimants get angry about - Part II How does Social Security consider pain? These pages provide answers to basic questions about pursuing disability benefits Who is eligible for SSI disability? How to get disability in Florida