TN 5 (11-15)
GN 03305.020 Servicing Third Party Requesters
Based on office demographics and public service considerations such as accessibility,
safety, and workload trends, the local FO employs a certain number of employees to
assist the local population. Each office assists claimants and other customers within
that office’s designated service area. ZIP code(s) or other recognizable boundaries
may define an office’s service area.
Third party requesters with consent must contact the office that services the mailing
ZIP code of the individual who is the subject of the requested record(s). If an FO
receives a third party request outside of its servicing area, return the request to
the requester with an explanation of why we cannot honor it. Use the sample language
below. DO NOT forward the request to the correct servicing FO.
The sample language is available for use in the Document Processing System (DPS).
Sample Language:
The local Social Security field office (FO) employs a certain number of employees
to assist the local population based on office demographics and public service considerations
such as accessibility, safety, and workload trends. Each office assists claimants
and other customers within that office’s designated service area. ZIP code(s) or other
recognizable boundaries define an office’s service area.
We do not process third party requests for claim file reviews or record information
on behalf of claimants or other individuals residing outside of our service area as
this practice conflicts with our servicing office policy. While a customer or claimant
may visit any office and receive service, a third party requester with consent must
direct requests for claim file reviews and record information to the office that services
their clients’ mailing ZIP code. Third party requesters with consent may also visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov/locator and enter the mailing ZIP codes of their clients to obtain the address of the appropriate
servicing office.
Your cooperation in this matter will enable all Social Security offices to carry out
the program administration responsibilities under the Social Security Act and effectively
provide quality service to all customers.
Thank you for your cooperation.