Pennsylvania's 10th Congressional District includes the following counties: Bradford/Tioga; Lackawanna; Luzerne; Lycoming; Montour; Northumberland; Pike; Snyder; Sullivan; Susquehanna; Union; Wayne; and Wyoming. If you are not a resident of any of these counties, visit the House of Representatives website to look up your district and Representative.

I am visiting Washington, D.C. What can Congressman Carney's office do for me?

My office would be delighted to be of service while you visit our nation's capital. We can provide you with a tour of the U.S. Capitol, in addition to providing more information about other sites. Check out the Visiting DC section of my website to find out more. To schedule a U.S. Capitol tour, contact Sarah Cogan at pa10tours@mail.house.gov or by calling the DC Office at (202) 225-3731.

How can I obtain a United States flag flown over the Capitol?

I am honored to be able to provide you with American flags, including ones that have flown over the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. These make wonderful gifts for special occasions. Visit the Order a Flag section of my website to find out more and download the order form. If you have any questions, contact Sarah Cogan at (202) 225-3731.

Does Congressman Carney offer internship positions in his offices?

My office is pleased to offer internships to eligible graduate and college-level students in order to further a student's educational and professional goals. To find out more about internship opportunities in my office, visit the Internships section of my website.

How can I request a meeting with the Congressman or invite him to my event?

My staff and I do our best to accomodate all meeting requests from the 10th district of Pennsylvania. Please issue all scheduling requests in writing. E-mail carneyscheduling@mail.house.gov with your request. Please check our Request a Meeting with Congressman Carney page to find out what to include in your email.

On The Issues

How can I find out how Congressman Carney voted on specific legislation?

The Library of Congress maintains complete records of all Congressional proceedings. Check out the Voting Resources section of my website to look up votes on specific legislation.

What legislation has Congressman Carney sponsored or co-sponsored?

THOMAS, the electronic data arm of the Library of Congress, provides easy access to all legislative records. To see a list of all bills I have sponsored, click here. To see all bills I have signed on to as a co-sponsor, click here.

How does the Congressman feel on the issues I am concerned about?

Check out the Issues section of my website.

I want to let the Congressman know how I feel about an issue. How may I contact him?

You can contact my office by mail, phone, fax, or email. You can find all contact information on the Contact Me page.

Social Security

Do I qualify for Social Security?

Many Americans are unaware that they qualify for Social Security. Use the Social Security Administration's Screening Tool to check if you do.

How do I apply for Social Security benefits?

To apply for benefits, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. You can ask them to send you the correct forms, and they can answer questions you may have. In order to qualify for disability benefits, you must be unable to perform work of any kind and your disability must be expected to last at least one year. If you are having trouble dealing with the Social Security Administration, my office can assist you. Visit the Social Security section of my website for more information. For further assistance, please contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or toll free at (866) 846-8124. You may e-mail Debra Smurkowski at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov.

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income is an income assistance program offered by the Social Security Administration for senior citizens, the blind, or the disabled who have a net worth less than $2,000. To apply for benefits or to ask questions, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Due to the large volume of applications, the Social Security Administration requires time to process your request. You can generally expect an answer on your eligibility for SSI within two to six months. If you are having trouble dealing with the Social Security Administration, my office can help you. Visit the Social Security section of my website for more information.

How do I apply for Survivors' Benefits?

If a member of your family who received Social Security passes away, a family member or other person responsible for the beneficiary's affairs should do the following:

Promptly notify Social Security of the beneficiary's death by calling SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213.
If monthly benefits were being paid via direct deposit, notify the bank or other financial institution of the beneficiary's death. Request that any funds received for the month of death and later be returned to Social Security as soon as possible.
If benefits were being paid by check, DO NOT CASH any checks received for the month in which the beneficiary died or thereafter. Return the checks to Social Security as soon as possible.

A one-time payment of $255 is payable to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the beneficiary at the time of death, OR if living apart, was eligible for Social Security benefits on the beneficiary's earnings record for the month of death. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who was eligible for benefits on the beneficiary's earnings record in the month of death. Monthly survivors benefits can be paid to certain family members, including the beneficiary's widow or widower, dependent children, and dependent parents. For more information and publications, visit the Social Security website for Survivors Benefits. If you need help dealing with the Social Security Administration, visit the Social Security section of my website.

I have other questions about Social Security.

You may look for an answer on the Social Security Administration’s Answers to Your Questions webpage or contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or call toll free at (866) 846-8124. You may also e-mail Debra Smurkowski at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov. Also, you can begin your casework online.

I am having a problem with my personal Social Security. Who can I contact?

If you are having trouble dealing with the Social Security Administration, my office can help you. Visit the Social Security section of my website for more information, and you can begin your caswork online. You may also contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit district office at (570) 585 - 9988 or toll free at (866) 846-8124. Debra Smurkowski is also available via e-mail at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov.

Veterans' Affairs

Am I eligible for veterans benefits? How do I apply?

You may be eligile for compensation, disability, pension, or vocational rehabilitation benefits if you are a U.S. military veteran, have over two years of active duty service, are a member of the Selected Reserve, or are a spouse/dependent of a "service connected" deceased or disabled veteran. If you meet any of these requirements, you can determine eligibility and apply to receive benefits online using VONAPP through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

How can I contact the Department of Veteran Affairs?

You can visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website, or call 1-800-827-1000 for all benefits-related inquiries. A complete listing of VA phone numbers can be found in the Veterans section of my website.

I do not understand how VA claims and compensation work.

Visit the Veterans section of my website for a complete explanation of veterans benefits including disability compensation, pension, and VA home loans, plus an explanation of the different types of VA claims. If you have other questions, please contact Joe Fabricatore in my Clarks Summit office by calling (570) 585-9988 or toll free at (866) 846-8124. You may also e-mail him at Joe.fabricatore@mail.house.gov.

I am not happy with a decision the VA made regarding my benefits. How can I appeal?

Find out more about appealing a VA decision on the Board of Veterans Appeals page.

For further information regarding denial of claims, please contact Joe Fabricatore in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or toll free at (866) 846-8124. You may also contact him via e-mail at Joe.Fabricatore@mail.house.gov.

One of my medals is lost or damaged. How can I have it replaced?

My office can help you replace your medals. Contact Joe Fabricatore in the Clarks Summit district office at (570) 585-9988 or call (866) 846-8124 toll free. You may also e-mail him at Joe.Fabricatore@mail.house.gov. In order to begin the process, please prepare your case. Then fill out form 180 and mail or fax it to:

Hon. Christopher Carney
Attn: Joe Fabricatore
233 Northern Blvd., Suite 4
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
(570) 585-9977

Where can I obtain an official copy of my military records?

My office can help you obtain military records and discharge papers. To begin the process of obtaining your military records, please begin to prepare your case. Then, fill out form 180 and mail it to my Clarks Summit office:

Hon. Christopher Carney
Attn: Joe Fabricatore
233 Northern Blvd., Suite 4
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
(570) 585-9977

If you have further questions or would like to follow up, please contact Joe Fabricatore in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or call (866) 846-8124 toll free. You may also contact Joe Fabricatore via e-mail at Joe.Fabricatore@mail.house.gov.

Passports

I am planning to travel abroad. What do I need?

In addition to obtaining a passport, you still have to check with the country or countries you will be visiting to determine whether or not you will need a visa. A visa is permission from a country to cross their borders and comes in the form of a page inserted in your U.S. Passport. You usually have to mail your passport to the Embassy or Consulate of the country you'll be visiting, so allow plenty of time to accomplish this. Also, check the State Department website for travel warnings and consular information sheets that provide helpful information about the country you plan on visiting.

I am leaving for a trip soon, and I need my passport quickly. What should I do?

Passports usually take from 30 to 40 days to issue. For a $60.00 fee - plus the cost of 2-way overnight mail - you can expedite this process and receive your passport in 7 to 10 business days. In emergencies, my office can help expedite your passport application. Visit the Passports section of my website or contact Wes Dunn in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or call (866) 846-8124 toll free. You may also contact Wes Dunn at Wes.Dunn@mail.house.gov.

What should I do if my passport is missing?

Report lost or stolen passports to the Department of State immediately. If you are in the United States, use the State Department's Lost Passports page. If you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy. Use this U.S. Embassy Directory to find contact information.

I have other questions about passports.

See the State Department’s Frequently Requested Information page. You can also contact Wes Dunn in my Clarks Summit district office at (570) 585-9988 or call (866) 846-8124 toll free. Wes Dunn is also reachable via e-mail at Wes.Dunn@mail.house.gov.

Medicare

What is Medicare and how can I find out if I am eligible?

Medicare is a Health Insurance Program for people 65 years of age and older, some disabled people under 65 years of age, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure treated with dialysis or a transplant). It is not to be confused with Medicaid which is a health care program for individuals with low income and limited resourses. To find out if you are eligible for Medicare, click here.

What is covered under Medicare?

Hospital insurance (Part A) helps pay for inpatient hospital care and certain follow-up services.
Medical insurance (Part B) helps pay for doctors’ services, outpatient hospital care and other medical services.
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) formerly known as Medicare + Choice plans, are available in many areas. People with Medicare Parts A and B can choose to receive all of their health care services through one of these provider organizations under Part C.
Prescription drug coverage (Part D) helps pay for medications doctors prescribe for medical treatment.

For more specific information, please see Medicare's Website.

You may also contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit office with further questions by calling (570) 585-9988 or toll free at (866) 846-8124. Debra Smurkowski is also reachable via e-mail at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov.

How can I find a participating physician that fits my needs?

Click here to see a participating physician directory.

How can your office help with HMOs and prescription drugs?

Besides primary Medicare coverage in the community, many individuals receive their medical benefits, including prescription drugs, through a primary HMO provider. Like with Medicare, my office can assist you in any difficulties that may arise with your coverage. If you are having a problem with any of the following and would like further assistance, please contact my staff.

Prescription drugs
Your Medical coverage through your HMO
Paying for medical bills: Doctor, EMS, or Hospital stays.

If you are having any issue with Prescription drug coverage, through either Medicare part D or your HMO provider, you may find more information through Medicare. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit office by calling (570) 585-9988 or (866) 846-8124 toll free. You may also e-mail Debra Smurkowski at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov. In order to solve your problem quickly, please begin your casework online.

Will every type of drug be covered under the Medicare prescription drug benefit?

No. Certain drugs such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, drugs for weight loss or gain, and drugs for relief of colds will not be covered. However, a plan can choose to cover excluded drugs if the plan offers more than standard coverage.

How can I join a Medicare prescription drug coverage plan?

Mail in Application:Contact the company offering the drug plan you choose and ask for an application. Once you fill out the form, mail or fax it back to the company.
On the Drug Plan’s Website: Visit the drug plan company’s website. You may be able to join online.
On Medicare’s Website: You will also be able to join a drug plan by using Medicare’s online enrollment center.
By Calling Medicare: You can join a drug plan by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and talking to a Medicare customer service representative. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

I have other questions about Medicare.

Medicare's Frequently Asked Questions page may be helpful or consult the Medicare section of our website.

Also, you may begin your casework online or contact Debra Smurkowski in my Clarks Summit office by calling (570) 585-9988 or (866) 846-8124 toll free. Debra Smurkowski is also available via e-mail at Debra.Smurkowski@mail.house.gov.

Taxes

I need assistance filling out my tax returns. Can your office help me?

With a signed Privacy Release form, the Congressman's staff can obtain information about the status of a return or a taxpayer's individual tax account. Although my congressional staff is not trained to directly assist in the preparation of returns or claims, the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers provide direct help solving tax problems, filing claims, making installment agreements and preparing basic individual income tax returns for incomes of $35,000 or less. Contact your local Taxpayer Advocate's office for certified help with your tax returns.

In addition, if you have not had success in your dealings with the IRS, my office can help you. If you or your organization has been assessed a penalty which you feel is unjust, I can advocate your issue to the Internal Revenue Service.

You may begin to process your casework online by clicking here. If you require more information, visit the IRS / Taxes section of my website, or contact Joe Fabricatore in my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or (866) 846-8124 toll free. You may also e-mail him at Joe.Fabricatore@mail.house.gov.

After filling out the Privacy Release form, please mail or fax it to:

Hon. Christopher Carney
c/o Joe Fabricatore
233 Northern Blvd., Suite 4
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
(570) 585-9988

What should I do if I need help dealing with back taxes?

The best way to get help is through your local Taxpayer Advocate's office. If you are having difficulties, you can contact Joe Fabricatore in my Clarks Summit district office at (570) 585-9988 or call toll free at (866) 846-8124. You may also e-mail Joe Fabricatore at Joe.fabricatore@mail.house.gov.

I have other questions about taxes or the Internal Revenue Service.

The IRS Website may be helpful. You can also begin your casework online or call my Clarks Summit office at (570) 585-9988 or (866) 846-8124 toll free.

Could not find what you were looking for?

For a list of other federal government Web sites, click here. You can always call my office at (570) 585-9988 or (866) 846-8124 toll free for assistance.

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Representative Christopher P. Carney

Representing the 10th Congressional District of Pennslyvania

Frequently Asked Questions

General

On The Issues

Social Security

Veterans' Affairs

Passports

Medicare

Taxes

General

On The Issues

Social Security

Veterans' Affairs

Passports

Medicare

Taxes

Washington DC Office

Clarks Summit District Office

Shamokin District Office

Williamsport District Office