Many times, constituents need help solving a problem with the federal government. It may be a lost Social Security check, an emergency passport, or an income tax issue. Or the problem may be even more complicated and serious. The federal government is large and often impersonal. It may be difficult to receive a fair, timely and impartial resolution to an issue, even if the constituent knows where to go.

Some of the areas in which I can assist are:

If you are having trouble with a federal agency, please contact me at the Canton office via letter. It does not need to be typed, fancy or long. Just outline the basic facts. A letter fulfills requirements of the Privacy Act and authorizes the federal agency to discuss your problem with me. Be certain to include your full name, address, daytime telephone number and, if appropriate, social security number. A form you may use to assist you can be found here in PDF form (requires Adobe Acrobat) or here in Word form.

Remember that I must hear from the constituent directly. Privacy regulations will not permit response to the parents of an adult child, for example, without expressed written authorization.

Finally, bear in mind that my actions are limited by law. I can:

• request information;
• urge prompt consideration;
• arrange interviews and appointments;
• express judgement;
• call for reconsideration.