Need a new Social Security card? Read this first

 The Social Security Administration in New Bern is relocating.

The office on Neuse Boulevard will move to 1420 McCarthy Boulevard, behind McCarthy Crossing shopping center.

The move is set for Aug. 11, according to Social Security officials.

The new reception area will offer more privacy for clients.

 Monitors will be in place and a guard, as required by every Social Security office in the nation, will greet clients. Clients will use a kiosk keypad to punch in the topic they want to discuss and get information from a representative.

Joanne Wigfall, Social Security district manager, said the new building will leave space for future expansion. The New Bern office serves Craven, Carteret, Onslow, Jones and Pamlico counties.

Wigfall said Monday and Friday and the day after a federal holiday are the busiest times at the office. She said the lunch hours of 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. are also busy times with longer waiting periods.

"Social Security offers the best citizen-centered service possible and this new and modern office is evidence of our continuing efforts in that direction," she said.

People with questions about Social Security can visit the New Bern office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or contact the national toll-free service line at 1-800-772-1213.

The agency's Web site is www.socialsecurity.gov. On the Web site, people can:

- Apply for Social Security retirement and spouses' benefits.

- Apply for disability benefits.

- Apply for extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs.

- Change address or telephone number.

- Apply for replacement of Medicare card.

- Request a proof of income letter.

- Get a 1099 form.

- Request a Social Security statement.

Wigfall said clients should call the toll-free number Aug. 11 to be sure that the move is complete.

She said services will be limited before the move from Aug. 4 through Aug. 8.

The local phone number is 252-637-1703.