The Social Security Administration (SSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to equity and civil rights by expanding the ways people can report discrimination and request accommodations, according to a May 30, 2025, announcement.
These updates ensure that everyone—regardless of disability, race, national origin, sex, age, or religion—can access Social Security programs without barriers or bias.
SSA reaffirms commitment to civil rights
The update highlights SSA’s compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates equal access for people with disabilities. The agency has broadened its outreach and methods for the public to request help or file civil rights complaints when experiencing program discrimination.
The protections cover a wide range of civil rights, including:
- Disability status
- Race and color
- National origin and language
- Sex and gender
- Age
- Religion
- Retaliation for previous complaints
How to request accommodations from SSA
SSA offers multiple pathways for individuals who need reasonable accommodations to navigate the agency’s services. These accommodations could involve communication support, physical access, or procedural adjustments.
Ways to request accommodations include:
- Visiting or calling a local SSA field or hearing office, which can be located at ssa.gov/locator or ssa.gov/appeals/ho_locator.html
- Calling SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Emailing [email protected]
These accommodations aim to ensure equitable access to programs like retirement, disability benefits, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Filing a civil rights discrimination complaint
For those who believe they’ve experienced discrimination in an SSA program, the agency provides several avenues to file a formal complaint.
To report program-based discrimination:
- Email [email protected]
- Submit the official complaint form (SSA-437-BK) available at ssa.gov/forms/ssa-437.pdf
- Call and leave a message at 1-866-574-0374
These complaints are reviewed in compliance with SSA’s internal civil rights procedures. SSA maintains a comprehensive resource hub on its accessibility page, including a Section 504 FAQ, policies on accommodations, and detailed instructions for filing complaints.
Why this matters
Ensuring fair treatment in federal benefit programs like Social Security is critical as millions of Americans rely on SSA for vital income and health coverage. The agency’s expanded transparency and accessibility measures help reinforce trust, especially for marginalized or vulnerable groups who historically face barriers.
This update comes at a time when federal agencies are under increased scrutiny to provide accessible, equitable services across all populations.
What happens next?
SSA encourages individuals who believe their rights have been violated—or who simply need extra support to navigate the system—to make use of the updated resources. The agency continues to review and enhance its accessibility and civil rights policies.
For more information and access to resources:
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