Open letter to U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss and U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop:
Dear Sirs:
You probably won't believe this but the Federal Government, namely the Social Security Office won't issue my wife a replacement Social Security card (she lost the original) because of an (e). Yes, that's right — an (E).
Think there has got to be a story here?
It all started when we were having some legal work done and they needed a copy of her Social Security Card. We couldn't find either of our cards.
I found a letter from Social Security that stated we should not carry our cards in a billfold or purse because they could be lost or stolen. I found my card but could not find hers.
I called the local Social Security office and was told, that if I would go online and print a form SS-5, fill it out and bring her driver's license to the office a new card could be issued in two weeks.
So this morning I go to the Office with my form SS-5, her driver's license, Medicare Card and a copy of her birth certificate, only to be told that they didn't match.
There was an E on the end of her first name on some of the documents and not on others. I told the Social Security supervisor that I have been married to the lady in question since 1961 and that she had always had an E on the end of her name, and produced her Medicare Card that had her name spelled with the now infamous E.
I then took the form SS-5 and marked through the E and handed it back and was told I had defaced an official document.
I lost my cool! I didn't ask for additional benefits, SSI, SSD, or someone to translate my words from Spanish or help of any kind. All I want is a card to replace the Social Security card that my wife has had since the late1950'S.
I was told that I must have her Ga. State Driver's License changed and Her birth certificate changed (had been ok since 1943). I told the supervisor that I was, just as soon as I could get home, calling my congressman. Anyone want to bet how much help I get?
Jerry Stripling
Cordele
