I had heard horror stories about the long lines and rude service at Social Security, but some things have to be done in person. I headed out there yesterday (Monday, supposedly the worst day of the week) expecting the worst.
I parked at the $3 lot kitty-corner from the building, figuring this would be more economical than worrying about a meter running out. I had only so many quarters, after all. After going through the metal detector, a guard pointed me in the right direction. Aside from passing truly nausea-inducing, ostentatiously large photos of the men leading the current Amerikan regime (a reminder, along with the vehicle-resistant pylons surrounding the block-long courthouse, that this was a federal building), that part was painless too.
The room itself is pretty dreary and did nothing to calm my digestive tract, but signing in was easy. You go to a touchscreen, answer a couple of questions and punch in your Social Security number. You then get a slip with a number on it. I had no sooner taken out a book and *almost* sat down (really, I was about to hit the seat) when that number was called for me to go to Window 2.
I remarked to the guy who helped that I was expecting to be waiting all afternoon, and he told me there was a mistake and I'd have to sit and wait at least an hour. He was joking, but it broke the ice. He was efficient, kind and actually hilarious. I don't think it was five minutes before he deadpanned, 'You want the good news or the bad news?' I opted for the bad news. He replied, 'This interview is over.' I told him maybe that was bad news for HIM, but on the way out I told the other employees that they rock. And now I'm telling you!
Maybe it was because I'd come on a rainy day, or maybe because it was after lunch... but it was the easiest government transaction I had had since time immemorial.
I wish I'd gotten the name of the gentleman at Window 2 who helped me, but I will say he's an excellent ambassador for the federal government. Which we so desperately need these days. read more