My recent column entitled, “Have you been declared prematurely dead?” reported that the Social Security Administration erroneously includes in its Death Index database approximately 14,000 persons annually who, in fact, are not dead. This column got the attention of Gail Talbot, Sun City Resident. Gail provided me with some additional detailed information from which we can all derive further benefit. She agreed to have me share the information with you, our readers.
Gail revealed that “…since 1936, 460 million Social Security numbers have been issued. No numbers that begin with 000, 666, or any in the 900 series have been issued. Prior to June 25, 2011, no numbers have been issued higher than 772 in the 700 series, or any in the 800 series. No numbers have been issued including 00 as the second number or 0000 as the last four digits.” She suggested that “…anyone with a number that indicates one of these inconsistencies should contact the Social Security Administration immediately.” Gail also stressed that “…there are always going to be a few “horror” stories, which make juicy news reports. Those few stories do not compare to the millions of people whom Social Security successfully serves and protects. Everyone should pay close attention to their personal information, who has the information, what information they have, and how to get it fixed, if what they have is wrong. Anyone who thinks there is a problem with his or her social security number should contact the Social Security error site at www.ssa.gov/employer/onlineerror.htm.”
Gail further conveyed her gratitude and support for those in the administration, as she stated, “Government has only two purposes: 1) to protect the commonwealth and 2) to protect and serve the people. Institutions make errors, but this does not invalidate their existence nor should it “unnerve” anyone. We are a very large, imperfect world, and expecting perfection will be, ultimately, disappointing.” I continue to hope for some improvement in the process, but acknowledge we won’t achieve perfection. Thanks for sharing, Gail.
CORRECTION: In my column “Countdown to 65,” I stated that “…when filing your Federal and state income tax returns, you will be entitled to an extra exemption for having reached 65.” Thanks to Dick Evans, Sun City resident, for pointing out that we do get an extra exemption on the Illinois State return, but on the Federal return, we only get an extra “deduction,” if you take the standard deduction and are over 65.
Keep those letters coming, folks. Send your ideas to: The Frugal Forum, P.O. Box 693, Huntley, IL 60142 or by email to: thefrugalforum@gmail.com.
