Federal Benefits
Social Security Administration
SSA Online Account Scam
The Federal Benefits Units Paris has become aware of an increase in "phishing" emails aimed at social security recipients.
While the Social Security Administration (SSA) has indeed recently released a new online account service for future and current beneficiaries of Social Security benefits, they are NOT sending emails to generate enrollment. The online account service is currently only available if you have a US mailing address.
The ONLY valid website to login for Social Security online account information is this ".gov" address below: www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
For general information on Social Security programs and services available online, please visit the SSA website.
Social Security Numbers and Cards
If you want to apply for an initial Social Security Number or you need to have your SSN card replaced, please go here for instructions.
Applying for Social Security Benefits
Please go here to learn who can apply for benefits and how to file a claim.
Other Federal Benefits Agencies
For information on other federal agencies’ programs please refer to:
ATM CARDS BLOCKED
Direct Express – cards are being blocked for international ATM withdrawals
Direct Express is currently blocking ATM withdrawals in countries outside the United States and its territories. This will impact the ability of some international cardholders to withdraw cash.
Cardholders should call Direct Express Customer Service (1-888-741-1115, or 1-765-778-6290 for international collect calls) for further information and to get re-authenticated and "whitelisted."
In the meantime, cardholders can continue to use their card to make purchases and receive cash back at the time of purchase. Cardholders can also continue to obtain teller withdrawals over-the-counter at MasterCard member institutions.
SSA is unable to intervene in the decision by Comerica Bank, who operate Direct Express, to block ATM withdrawals outside the U.S.
(correct as of 10 April 2013)