By Kathleen W. Hinckley
Q. About six weeks ago, I sent
a request to the Social Security Administration for some copies of applications for Social Security cards. As of today, my check has not been cashed and of course no information has come. I have since been told to expect the wait to be as long as six months! Has anyone else had the same delay?
A. The Social Security Administration routinely takes three to six months to respond to requests for copies of the application form, or SS-5, of deceased persons. See the SSA Web site's Freedom of Information page at www.ssa.gov/foia/foia_guide.htm for instructions on how to request a photocopy of the SS-5.
—Kathleen W. Hinckley
Kathleen W. Hinckley is a Certified Genealogical Records Specialist and private investigator. Her book Locating Lost Family Members & Friends (Betterway Books, $18.99) offers tips on searching the Social Security Death Index (SSDI).