June 18, 2012

NEWS RELEASE

National Seniors’ Advocacy Group Applauds Return of Mailed Social Security Annual Statements

Praises Senator Harkin for his leadership on restoring SSA Administrative funding

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare (NCPSSM) heralded a significant victory for American workers last week when the Senate Appropriations Committee directed the Social Security Administration (SSA) to restore the mailing of annual Social Security statements.  SSA had stopped mailing the statements last year as a cost-saving measure even though millions have relied on the statement to properly prepare for a secure retirement. At the same time, the Appropriations Committee also directed SSA to report on the policies and procedures it uses to determine the closure of field offices and to provide adequate public notice. Nearly a dozen field offices have closed in the past year, causing hardships for thousands of beneficiaries and their caregivers.

In a June 13 letter to Senator Tom Harkin, Chair of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies, NCPSSM President/CEO Max Richtman requested that the Subcommittee provide SSA with at least $11.76 billion for FY 2013, as recommended in the President’s 2013 budget: “Given the essential nature of Social Security, and the increasing demands of an aging population, I believe it is extremely important that SSA be provided sufficient funds for operating expenses so it can meet the needs of the American people.”

“Senator Harkin has been a courageous advocate and partner in our efforts to protect Social Security for every American. Senator Harkin understands the importance of reliable information about Social Security for current and future beneficiaries. As the aging population grows, SSA must be prepared to cope with the increasing demand for services and maintain the progress it has already made in providing satisfactory service to all who rely on Social Security.” Max Richtman, NCPSSM President and CEO

###

The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.

Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
Kim Wright 202-216-8414   www.ncpssm.org