Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Some local residents have asked how they are able to visit the local Social Security Office to obtain a copy of their social security number or discuss other matters, since the US Social Security Administration (SSA) on Mar. 17th suspended face-to-face services in their field offices due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Similar questions were also raised by Samoans residing in the US and they have asked Samoa News if there is any new update.

Responding to Samoa News inquiries, SSA pointed to the agency’s July 17th national news release, which states in part — that due to COVID-19, “you must have a scheduled appointment to enter an office. Only you may enter the facility unless you have made additional arrangements when you scheduled your appointment.”

Effective July 20th, SSA says everyone must complete a self-assessment checklist before allowed entry. And the person will not be permitted to enter if “you answer yes to any of these questions”. Among the questions: Do you have any of the following symptoms? — Cough or sore throat; Fever (100.4 degrees or higher); Chills; Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; Muscle pain or body aches; Headache; New loss of taste or smell; or Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

There are also additional health questions dealing with the past 14-days and the person must wear a face-mask in order to get in the office for the scheduled appointment.  More details on SSA website (www.ssa.gov). To

Two local residents told Samoa News yesterday that they were able to get into the local Social Security office after making an appointment. Upon arrival, a security officer asked them several questions, pertaining to health issues and after answering they were allowed in by wearing a face-mask.