In a recent newsletter, Elaine Floyd encouraged advisors to have their clients to deal with the SSA online
instead of heading down there in person.
There are times when that may not be possible, though—for instance, when attempting to file for a survivor benefit. At a recent Savvy Social Security 2-Day Intensive Workshop
for advisors, financial advisor and retirement specialist Peter Murphy made a case for visiting the Social Security office with your clients and prospects. Not only is this a good practical step in that it minimizes
the chance of miscommunication between clients and the SSA, it’s also a great way to develop your business relationships.
There’s an intermediate option, too. You may want to bring your clients and prospects into your own office, get them set up on a computer, and help them file their online application.
This demonstrates responsibility and builds goodwill.