Following a nationwide cutback to close Social Security Offices 30 minutes earlier, Gilroy’s branch is now open to the public from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Following a nationwide cutback to close Social Security Offices 30 minutes earlier, Gilroy’s branch is now open to the public from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
The change started Monday at the office at 1059 First Street, between Kern Avenue and Westwood Drive.
While agency employees will continue to work their regular hours, this shorter public window will allow them to complete face-to-face service with the visiting public without incurring the cost of overtime, according to a news release.
Congress provided Social Security with nearly $1 billion less than requested for the budget this fiscal year, which makes it impossible for the agency to provide the amount of overtime needed to handle service to the public as we have in the past, according to the Social Security press release.
Most Social Security services do not require a visit to an office. For example, anyone wishing to apply for benefits, sign up for direct deposit, replace a Medicare card, obtain a proof of income letter or a change of address or telephone number may do so at www.socialsecurity.gov or by dialing toll-free, 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call, 1-800-325-0778.
