Social Security: How we serve people with limited English proficiency

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We strive to deliver great customer service with helpful information for everyone. This includes improving access for underserved communities. We aim to reduce language barriers and increase access to Social Security programs, services and benefits. If you are a person with limited English proficiency, know that we have the resources available to help you in your preferred language. We encourage you to learn about the resources that are available to serve LEP communities.

What resources are available?

We offer publications in languages other than English. Our non-English publications and other resources at ssa.gov/multilanguage are available in more than 12 languages. The multilanguage website also lists resources to support you in your preferred language. We provide benefit information in Spanish at SeguroSocial.gov that includes:

  • Retirement
  • Disability
  • Supplemental Security Income 

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Our free interpreter services are available, by phone and in person, in more than 200 languages. These services are accessible by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting a local Social Security office and asking for an interpreter in your preferred language.

Diversity is one of our nation’s greatest strengths. We want to ensure an inclusive environment for everyone we serve. Our Language Access Plan affirms our commitment to increase access to benefits and services for people who prefer a language other than English. To learn more, we encourage you to visit ssa.gov/site/languages.

Disability

Q: If I go back to work, will I automatically lose my Social Security disability benefits?

A: No. Social Security has several work incentives programs to help people who want to work. You may be able to receive monthly benefits and continue your health care coverage during a trial work period. For information about Social Security’s work incentives and how they can help you return to work, you should do one of the following:

For more information, visit www.ssa.gov or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Q: I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. I now have a second serious disability. Can my monthly benefit amount be increased?

A: No. Your Social Security disability benefit amount is based on the amount of your lifetime earnings before your disability began and not the number of disabling conditions or illnesses you may have. For more information, go to ssa.gov/disability.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 or visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

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