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Prepare to Open a Case

Once you have determined that your problem is one with which I can be of assistance, you should follow the steps listed below to gather necessary information and material before you contact my office. This will help my staff to assist you more efficiently.

STEP ONE: Complete a Personal Authorization Form

Because of the Right to Privacy Act, you will need to complete a Personal Authorization Form giving permission for my staff to look into the matter on your behalf.

STEP TWO: Gather necessary paperwork

  1. You must provide my staff with any paperwork you have regarding your case. This might include letters from the agency, medical forms, and other forms and documents relating to your problem.
  2. The agencies listed below require additional information. My staff will need this before they can make inquiries on your behalf:

    * Office of Personnel Management Cases:
    The OPM uses your CSA or CSF number as well as your Social Security number. For some cases, your date of birth is also helpful. To report the death of an annuitant and to apply for survivor benefits, you will need the death certificate.
    * Social Security Cases:
    You need to apply for Social Security disability benefits (SSD) before you contact my office. Once you have applied, my staff will need to have information on the office at which you filed your claim or appeal and where you are in the process.
    * Veterans Affairs Cases:
    For these cases, your C number will be helpful along with your Social Security number.
    * Workers Comp Cases:
    Your case number along with your Social Security number will help us track your case.

PREPARE AT A GLANCE

  • Having necessary material in-hand will prevent delays
  • Prepare relevant paperwork, like agency letters and medical forms
  • Some agencies require special papers; check list here
  • Required: Personal Authorization Form

OPEN A CASE WITH MY OFFICE

Open a case with one of my New Mexico offices so my staff can investigate the problem on your behalf.  [MORE]

DETERMINE IF YOUR ISSUE IS CASEWORK

Before you contact me for assistance with a case, you should determine if your problem is something my office has the authority to help you with. [MORE]

COMMON CASEWORK QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Although every case is unique, some questions arise frequently. Check this list of common casework questions to see if it might hold a quick answer for you.  [MORE]

FEDERAL AGENCY LINKS

Many questions you have might be answered on the website for the agency with which you are dealing. [MORE]