By Katie Williamson | Special to the Advertiser

The Social Security Administration, which has been serving Americans for 80 years this year, has broadened its online horizons by adding new features to its website, ssa.gov.

On Sept. 15, two Social Security representatives visited the Chilton-Clanton Public Library to inform the public of the newly available services.

They are visiting Clanton and surrounding areas for this effort.

The representatives said the new features are more convenient for those living in rural areas.

These new services are available with a free account on the website.

Those receiving benefits are now able to obtain their benefit verification letter, check benefit and payment information, change address or phone numbers and set-up direct deposit.

For those new to or looking into Social Security, there are applications available for retirement, disability and Medicare.

There is also a tool available to calculate estimates of potential benefits.

Help is also available for those with vision and hearing impairments.

More information is available at ssa.gov.