If you have a need to visit the Social Security Administration at 175 E. 400 South in Salt Lake City, you are in for a surprise.
Some years ago, it was moved from 202 W. 400 South. It was a bit crowded there. However, who would have thought of moving to the current location? Someone with myopia or an interest in the paid parking lot? With no other parking to enter the building, someone is reaping a ton of money from those who need to visit the SSA. Each parking stall is numbered with instructions to prepay at the kiosk near the stairs. One hour will cost you $2. If you're not sure that's enough time (and it isn't), then select two hours. That will cost you $6. Two hours is also a bit tight. It goes up from there.
The kiosk is not user-friendly and doesn't give change. If you need one hour and only have $5, it will cost you $5. I have no clue what the penalty is for exceeding the time, but I have visions of the commercial parking lot police hauling away my car.
The system is disgraceful.Surely the SSA can do better than sign up with a commercial organization that is reaping (close but not the right word) those who are there to handle their SSA benefits.
Richard Johnson, Centerville
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