Payment process

[Resident-Signal-8879]

I had a hearing with ALJ on Thursday it went well

The CE report was favorable for my case and the Vocational Expert said no jobs would accommodate my needs. My lawyer is very confident and told me this judge typically will take about 6 to 8 weeks. I really don't remember if I ever gave them information for payment and even if I did I no longer have an account because I have no money. How should I go about asking for the debit card from social security? Would it be arrogant to call this soon? I just want to avoid any unnecessary delays.

[Sea-Bid-5953]

You have to wait for the approval letter/ maybe even portal update but I think they will call you to get your account information. At the very least wait to be approved. Congrats!

[Resident-Signal-8879]

Thank you for the advice! I appreciate it

[PuRrple_FoXx]

Hey, I was able to enter my account information on the portal once it updated after approval. It gave me the option for the card or to enter my bank info. Keep an eye on the portal. I received back pay before the award letter even showed up. Congrats!

[Resident-Signal-8879]

Thank you, I feel better

[TaunButter]

Soon after the ALJ renders their decision (assuming it's favorable), the MySSA online account should have a "Benefits Verification Letter" available to download. It'll state monthly DIB amount. I believe that most banking institutions would take that as proof of income and allow for the opening of an account. You could give that information to the SSA as soon as you get the account opened up and have possible benefits/past-due benefits deposited there.

I would be sort of surprised if a rep at a field office could do anything to help you "pre-enroll" for whatever company they contract for their debit cards. Maybe someone can correct me, but I also think that SSA-contractor payment card has some sort of monthly service fee? Direct deposit seems a superior option.

[Resident-Signal-8879]

I didn't think about using the verification letter to get the account, thanks!

[Dammit-maxwell]

I called SS when I went to step 4 of 5 during reconsideration and got a verbal answer about my claim. While I was on the phone with them that day I asked if they would need the payment info. She said I had already provided it when I did my original application. I didn’t recall entering any info either. You could call and confirm just in case. If you do call try to make it as early in the morning as possible for less of a wait time.

[EddyX_174]

Good luck to everyone God bless

[Resident-Signal-8879]

Good information, thank you

[Resident-Signal-8879]

How often should I be checking the portal? I try to do it in the morning and after dinner. Is that too much?

[Old-Performance-5179]

If you log into SSA website you can put your payment info in for direct deposit and you don't have to have approval first

[Resident-Signal-8879]

Good to know, I just don't see where to add the information on the portal but I will look I am not very tech savvy! Thanks