Patchogue Obstruction

I represent a 59 year old administrative assistant with double concussion syndrome whose application for Social Security Disability (“SSD”) benefits was approved in two months. It could have been faster, but the Patchogue office delayed matters by creating rules that do not exist. 

As has been the case for many years now, we filed the claimant’s application and representation forms electronically. However, in this case, we received an unsigned, one sentence letter declaring that our forms were unacceptable because “original wet signature documents” had to be submitted. 

The fact that the letter was unsigned indicates that the sender knew there was no basis for rejecting the forms. The POMS states: 

Either an attorney or non-attorney may use a rubber stamp or e-signature to sign the notice. SSA will accept a rubber-stamped or an electronic signature unless there is a reason to doubt that it represents the intent of the representative to accept the appointment. 

The POMS could not be clearer. Nonetheless, contrary to the POMS, the Patchogue office delayed matters as it insisted that original wet signature documents be submitted. A needless waste of time and resources.