News

How Social Security Serves People Who Have Limited English Proficiency

The Social Security Administration strives to deliver great customer service with helpful information for everyone. This includes improving access for underserved communities. We aim to reduce language barriers and increase access to Social Security programs, services, and benefits.

If you are a person with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) or have a family member, friend, or client who prefers a language other than English, please know that we have resources available to help you in your preferred language. We encourage you to learn about the resources that are available to serve LEP communities.

What resources are available?

We offer publications in languages other than English. Visit www.ssa.gov/multilanguage to find publications in 18 languages. The website also lists resources to support you in your preferred language.

We provide benefit information in Spanish at SeguroSocial.gov that includes:

• Retirement
• Disability
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Interpreter services are available free of charge by phone and in person in more than 200 languages. These services are accessible by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting a local Social Security office and asking for an interpreter in your preferred language.

Diversity is one of our nation’s greatest strengths. We want to ensure an inclusive environment for everyone we serve. Our Language Access Plan affirms our commitment to increase access to benefits and services for people who prefer a language other than English. To learn more, visit www.ssa.gov/site/languages.

---

Contributor Kirk Larson is the Social Security Administration Public Affairs Specialist for the Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington regions.

This article appeared in the July 2024 issue of AgeWise King County.