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Social Security Expands Resources and Services for Alaska: Phone Service Doubled, SSN Cards Go Online

Baltimore, MD – October 30, 2026 – The Social Security Administration (SSA) today announced a significant expansion of resources to better meet the needs of Alaskans. This includes improved phone service, targeted support for remote communities, expanded virtual-service options, and new technology.

Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano said: “The Social Security Administration is ensuring Alaskans have more options to access services, whether online, by phone, or in person. U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan wrote to me last year outlining Alaska’s service needs, and we have been acting on his recommendations.”

Key Improvements in Alaska (FY 2026)

1. Phone Service – Major Improvement:

• Alaska Field Offices: New phone technology nearly doubled the answer rate in FY 2026
• National 800 Number: Average speed of answer 5.6 minutes – An improvement of nearly 80% compared to FY 2024
• Enhanced automated telephone services and expanded online access via my Social Security

My Social Security Accounts enable individuals 24/7 access to agency’s tools and services, whether they currently receive benefits or not. Create at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

2. Support for Rural & Remote Communities:

Alaska is vast and travel is expensive. To improve access:

• Mobile service teams deployed to high-need areas across Alaska
• Teams provided in-person assistance and identified opportunities to further strengthen services
• SSA working with state and community partners to enhance virtual-service options and reduce barriers for residents who travel long distances

3. New Online Services Coming in Weeks – Big Relief for 15,000 Alaskans:

In the coming weeks, Alaska will begin process for residents to request Social Security Number (SSN) replacement cards online.

• Every year, 15,000 Alaskan residents need a replacement card
• Earlier they often had to travel long distances and incur high costs to visit a field office
• Along with replacement cards, Alaskans will also be able to request name changes online

These new online options will give Alaskans more ways to receive service without travel.

Where to Apply:

• Replacement Card: www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
• My Account: www.ssa.gov/myaccount
• General Services: www.ssa.gov

Why Alaska Needs Special Focus?

Alaska is the largest US state by area, with many remote villages accessible only by plane or boat. Senator Dan Sullivan had outlined Alaska’s service needs last year, highlighting:

• Long travel distances to field offices
• High travel costs
• Limited internet in some areas
• Need for culturally sensitive outreach to Alaska Native communities

SSA acted on his recommendations and results are visible in FY 2026 data.

Quick Stats:

• Phone answer rate: 2x improved
• 800 Number answer time: 5.6 minutes (80% faster than FY24)
• Annual SSN replacement demand: 15,000
• New services: Online SSN replacement + Online name change

For Press: Barton Mackey, Press Officer, press.office@ssa.gov

Source: SSA Press Release – Social Security Expands Resources and Services for Alaska – 30 Oct 2026

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