It’s not as simple as asking the agency to send a message because you’ve lost track of that person. The program has some pretty stringent rules. And obviously, in cases where foul play is most likely, Social Security is unlikely to yield any results, anyway. But if you can meet the requirements, there is the possibility you could at the very least contact a missing loved one who, for whatever reason, has voluntarily disappeared.
Here is what Social Security Online says about this:
“We will attempt to forward a letter to a missing person under circumstances involving a matter of great importance, such as a death or serious illness in the missing person’s immediate family, or a sizeable amount of money that is due the missing person. Also, the circumstances must concern a matter about which the missing person is unaware and would undoubtedly want to be informed. (Generally, when a son, daughter, brother, or sister wishes to establish contact, we write to the missing person, rather than forward a letter from the relative.) Because this service is not related in any way to a Social Security program, its use must be limited so that it does not interfere with our regular program activities.”
The agency does not charge for the service when there is a humanitarian purpose, but does assess a fee of $25 to cover its costs when it involves a financial matter.
While it certainly won’t work for everyone, it might be an unexplored bridge to a loved in some cases.
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