We finally received some news on a definitive date in which the Social Security Administration will execute a reentry plan for employees to return to the office. This is not the end of telework for Social Security employees, but a new telework schedule will be offered to most employees.
This is good news for anyone who felt they needed in-person service at a Social Security office, but have not been able to get it. Since March of 2020 Social Security closed all of its offices to visitors. At that point, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses moved to allowing employees to work from home, including at Social Security. Most businesses have moved to bring back employees to their place of work, but Social Security has not and will have another two months to work on the reentry plan that is expected to take action at the end of March.
Last week Acting Social Security Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi sent a message to all Social Security employees regarding the reentry plan. One of the big sticking points for executing the reentry plan was the agency’s need to come to an agreement with the three different labor unions that represent Social Security employees. It appears that all sides are in agreement with the plan, but Kijakazi did not offer many details, only that an agreement was reached and telework is a part of that agreement. Below is the message the acting commissioner sent to employees on January 21, 2022.
A Message to All SSA Employees
On Wednesday, I shared that we reached agreement with our three labor unions. I have additional updates to share about timing.
We are planning reentry and the implementation of new telework schedules for most employees on March 30, 2022. This date allows us to ensure that the necessary measures are in place to keep you and the public safe, is consistent with our union agreements, and gives us time to provide you with appropriate notice of return.
I appreciate your patience while we continue to work through the reentry process. In early February, your managers will talk with you about telework eligibility and the days for your position, as well as explain next steps including when and how to request telework.
We anticipate that field offices will restore increased in-person service to the public, without an appointment, in early April. As we expand the availability of in-person service, we will continue to encourage the public to go online, call us for help if they cannot complete their business online, and schedule appointments in advance. Customers who walk in without appointments may encounter delays.
We will begin limited in-person hearings in March with our management judges and plan to expand in-person hearings in the spring and early summer based on required notice to affected claimants.
Please plan according to the dates above. We will continue to monitor the course of the pandemic, and our reentry plan allows us respond to changing pandemic conditions.
I will continue to share updates as we move forward with our preparations for reentry.
Kilolo Kijakazi
Acting Commissioner
