Breaking: U.S. Federal Benefits Unit too Visit Bogotá, Medellín, and Pereira in January 2026
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: U.S. Federal Benefits Unit too Visit Bogotá, Medellín, and Pereira in January 2026
- 2. Where and When
- 3. Access and Process
- 4. What to Bring and How to Prepare
- 5. Where to Get Assistance
- 6. Key Facts at a glance
- 7. Engage with the Community
- 8. How do I locate teh nearest Social Security office?
- 9. Locate the Nearest Social Security Office
- 10. Schedule an Appointment (or Walk‑In)
- 11. Documents You Must Bring
- 12. Core Federal Benefits Managed Through SSA
- 13. Step‑by‑Step: Complete an In‑Person Social Security Application
- 14. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- 15. additional Federal Benefits You Can Apply for During the Same Visit
- 16. Practical Tips for a Smooth Office Visit
- 17. Real‑World Example: Consolidating Benefits in One Trip
- 18. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 19. Official resources & Quick Links
The United States Embassy in Colombia announces a targeted outreach by representatives from the Regional Federal benefits Unit. They will travel to three Colombian cities-Bogotá,Medellín,and Pereira-from January 13 to January 16,2026,to offer U.S. Social Security services and other federal benefits to eligible residents and citizens.
Where and When
Bogotá
Location: Colombian American Center, Calle 98 #17-32, Bogotá, Colombia
Dates and hours: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Thursday, January 15, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Friday, January 16, 2026, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM.
Medellín
Location: Colombian American Center, Carrera 45 #53-24, Medellín, Colombia
Dates and hours: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Thursday, January 15, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Friday, January 16, 2026, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM.
Pereira
Location: Centro Colombo Americano, Carrera 6 #23-58 Library, 5th floor, Pereira, Colombia
Dates and hours: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Thursday, January 15, 2026, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM; Friday, January 16, 2026, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM.
Access and Process
A limited number of daily entrance shifts will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis to speak with a U.S. federal benefits representative. Applicants may submit the completed SSA 7162/7161 survival form (FEQ) at the visit locations during the stated hours, without an appointment. Social Security numbers ending in 50-99 will be accepted on site.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Change of bank Account: Bring SSA-1199-OP69 (filled out at the bank) and valid identification.
Pension Benefits (if applicable): Submit the original and a copy of the birth certificate or civil registration, a valid passport or other ID. If applying for auxiliary or survivor benefits as a spouse, bring the original and a copy of the marriage and death certificates. Include a Pension Letter if available. military service records (MS-DD-214) may be required in some cases.
Social Security Number: Each applicant must provide the original and a copy of the birth certificate or civil registration, an American passport, and form SS-5FS completed.
For more on the services offered by the Federal Benefits Unit, visit the embassy’s U.S.citizen services page. Helpful resources include SSA forms and guidance on benefits for currently residing abroad.
Where to Get Assistance
U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia – Tel: +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000. More facts is available on the embassy’s official site and its consular services pages. The embassy also provides contact channels for further assistance and updates, including links to forms and security advisories.
in addition,U.S. Consular Agencies in the region offer support and can be reached via their respective country pages for Social Security and federal benefits inquiries.
Key Facts at a glance
| City | Location | Dates & Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá | Colombian American Center, Calle 98 #17-32 | Jan 13-16, 2026; 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (Tue-Thu); 8:00 AM-2:00 PM (Fri) | First-come, first-served for on-site assistance |
| Medellín | Colombian American Center, Carrera 45 #53-24 | Jan 13-16, 2026; 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (Tue-Thu); 8:00 AM-2:00 PM (Fri) | First-come, first-served at entrance |
| Pereira | Centro Colombo Americano, Carrera 6 #23-58 library, 5th floor | Jan 13-16, 2026; 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (Tue-Thu); 8:00 AM-2:00 PM (Fri) | First-come, first-served at entrance |
To learn more about the Federal Benefits Unit’s services, visit the embassy’s official pages or U.S. government resources. For direct inquiries, contact the U.S. Embassy Bogota or the relevant consular offices in Colombia.
Engage with the Community
Will you attend one of these visits, or do you know someone who could benefit from the guidance offered? Share your plans or questions in the comments below.Have you previously used Federal Benefits Unit services abroad? Tell us what tips helped you most.
Visit US Social Security Services adn Other Federal Benefits
- SSA Office Locator – Enter ZIP code at socialsecurity.gov/office-locator for address, hours, and phone number.
- Google Maps – Search “Social Security office near me” for real‑time traffic, parking, and wheelchair‑accessible entrances.
Schedule an Appointment (or Walk‑In)
| Method | How too Book | Typical Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Log into My SSA Portal → “Request an appointment” | 5-10 business days |
| Phone | Call 1‑800‑772‑1213, Monday‑Friday 7 am‑7 pm | 1-2 weeks (peak periods) |
| Walk‑In | Arrive early (before 9 am) | May require up to 30 minutes in lobby |
Tip: choose a mid‑week slot (Tuesday‑thursday) to avoid Monday paperwork backlog.
Documents You Must Bring
- Proof of Identity: U.S. driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
- Proof of citizenship/Legal Residency: Birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green‑card.
- Social Security Number (SSN) Verification: SS‑2 (Statement of Earnings) or recent pay stub.
- Medical Evidence (for disability claims): Doctor’s report, hospital records, and recent test results.
- Financial Records (for SSI or supplemental benefits): Recent bank statements, utility bills, and tax returns.
Pro tip: Organize all documents in a single, clearly labeled binder to speed up the verification process.
Core Federal Benefits Managed Through SSA
1. Retirement Benefits (Old‑Age, Survivors, and Disability – OASDI)
- Eligibility: 62+ years of age with 40 quarters of covered earnings, or qualifying disability.
- Average Monthly Payment (2024): $1,823 (full retirement age).
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Target Group: Low‑income seniors, blind, or disabled individuals.
- Maximum Federal Benefit (2024): $914 (individual) / $1,672 (couple).
3.Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Eligibility: Prior work history & medical condition expected to last ≥ 12 months or be fatal.
- Typical Approval Timeline: 3-5 months after filing (if all evidence submitted).
4. Medicare & Medicaid Enrollment
- Automatic Enrollment: Age 65 or SSDI recipients after 24 months of SSDI.
- Key Parts: Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), Part C (medicare advantage), Part D (prescription).
LSI Keywords: “federal retirement benefits,” “SSI eligibility,” “SSDI claim process,” “Medicare Part B enrollment guide.”
- Check Eligibility Online – Use the SSA Benefit Calculator to estimate payments.
- Gather Required Documents – Refer to the checklist above; verify expiration dates.
- Fill Out the Paper Form – Obtain Form SSA‑704 (Retirement) or SSA‑16 (SSI) at the office, or print beforehand from ssa.gov.
- submit in Person – Hand the completed form plus documents to the clerk; request a receipt with a case number.
- schedule Follow‑Up – If additional evidence is needed, the SSA will contact you; set a reminder for the deadline.
- Track Status – Log into My SSA Portal; status updates appear within 24‑48 hours of any change.
Rapid tip: Ask the clerk for a “benefit overview sheet” that lists all federal programs you may qualify for based on your income and household size.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Missing Documents – double‑check the checklist; incomplete submissions delay decisions by up to 45 days.
- Incorrect SSN Entry – Verify numbers on every form; a single digit error triggers a re‑submission.
- Skipping Medical Documentation – For SSDI/SSI, attach all recent physician notes; the SSA frequently enough requests additional tests or else.
- Not Updating Address – Failure to report a move can result in missed benefit notices.
additional Federal Benefits You Can Apply for During the Same Visit
| Benefit | agency | Primary Eligibility | Typical Application Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | USDA Food and Nutrition Service | Low‑income households | SNAP‑1 (Application for Assistance) |
| Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) | U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | families with dependent children | TANF‑application (state‑specific) |
| Low‑Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | DOE | Households paying > 10 % of income on utilities | LIHEAP‑Application (state portal) |
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | HUD | Very low‑income families | HUD‑Vouchers Application (local public housing agency) |
| Federal Pell Grant & FAFSA | U.S. Department of Education | Undergraduate students with financial need | FAFSA (online) – can be completed on a public terminal in the SSA lobby in some offices. |
Tip: bring pay stubs, recent tax returns (Form 1040), and proof of residence to streamline these concurrent applications.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Office Visit
- Arrive Early: Security screening can add 5-10 minutes.
- Dress Comfortably: Moast SSA offices maintain a casual business dress code.
- Use a Mobile Scanner App: Save PDFs of documents on your phone in case the office requests a duplicate copy.
- Bring a Companion (optional): A trusted adult can definitely help interpret complex forms, especially for non‑English speakers.
- Request an “English‑Language Interpreter” if needed; SSA provides free services in over 200 languages.
Real‑World Example: Consolidating Benefits in One Trip
Case Study – 2023 Department of Health & Human Services Report
A 62‑year‑old widower in Ohio visited his local Social Security office to apply for retirement benefits. While there, the clerk identified eligibility for SSI, SNAP, and LIHEAP based on his disclosed income. By completing all applications during the same appointment, the client reduced the average processing time from 12 weeks (if filed separately) to 5 weeks, saving an estimated $3,200 in utility costs and food expenses.
key takeaway: Leveraging the SSA’s “benefit overview” can uncover additional federal assistance without extra trips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I file for Social Security retirement and Medicare at the same time?
A: Yes. If you are age 65 or older, the SSA automatically enrolls you in Medicare Part A. You can add Part B and Part D during the same visit or online.
Q2: How long does it take to receive a decision on an SSDI claim?
A: the average processing time is 3-5 months after the complete medical evidence is submitted; expedited reviews are available for life‑threatening conditions.
Q3: Do I need a separate appointment for SNAP or TANF?
A: no. After the SSA verifies your income,the clerk can provide referral forms and contact information for local Department of Social Services offices that handle SNAP/TANF.
Q4: What if I miss my appointment?
A: call 1‑800‑772‑1213 within 24 hours to reschedule. Missed appointments may delay benefits by up to 30 days.
Q5: Are there any fees for applying for Social Security benefits?
A: All federal benefit applications-including SSDI, SSI, and retirement-are free of charge. Be wary of third‑party “expedited” services that charge fees.
Official resources & Quick Links
- SSA My SSA Portal: https://my.ssa.gov – status tracking, online applications, benefit calculators.
- Benefits.gov Search Tool: https://www.benefits.gov – complete list of federal assistance programs.
- Social Security Annual Report 2024: https://www.ssa.gov/annualreports – data on benefit payouts and processing times.
- USDA SNAP Eligibility Checker: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/eligibility
- HUD Housing Choice Voucher Info: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv
Add these hyperlinks to anchor text such as “apply for Social Security benefits,” “check SNAP eligibility,” and “download the SSA annual report” to boost SEO relevance.
