Social Security touches the lives of nearly every American and as a member of the Federal Government’s Rural Partners Network program, Social Security wants to continue reaching out to rural communities.

Jack Myers with Social Security points out millions of Americans who are retirees that worked hard their whole lives, or people no longer able to work due to disability, and dependents and survivors - count on them.

Services have expanded in rural America over the years. Myers indicates the Social Security website, www.ssa.gov has a variety of opportunities to do things like apply for retirement or spouse’s benefits, disability benefits, supplemental Security Income (SSI) (in some cases), Medicare, and the Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) costs.

If you are not able to utilize Social Security's online services, you can call the national toll-free number at 800-772-1213 or your local office in Bloomington at 877-405-4640 or Springfield at 877-279-9504. You can also visit the office from 9 am to 4 pm M-F. The last option may not always be convenient for rural communities because it may involve a drive, so they encourage you to try the website or phone options.