May is National Direct Deposit Month, and Social Security would like to celebrate by encouraging all beneficiaries to get their payments the quick, convenient and safe way - by direct deposit.

To some people, direct deposit seems like a new way of doing things. But it has been in use for more than 25 years and has a proven track record of success. That's because it is so fast and convenient. It eliminates the need to take a paper check to the bank and also gets the funds into your bank account faster.

Millions of taxpayers use direct deposit so they can get their income tax returns faster.

Even more get their benefit checks and paychecks by direct deposit. Earlier this year, the first baby boomer to receive Social Security benefits, Kathy Casey-Kirschling, chose to receive her payment by direct deposit, too.

Here's something else to consider. According to the National Automated Clearing House Association, once a direct deposit account is established, a payment can never be lost. Direct deposit gives you peace of mind. No matter where you are, your payment is in the bank. There's no worry about stolen, lost or misdirected payments.

If you don't already have direct deposit for your Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, it's easy to sign up. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit or visit www.Godirect.org.You also can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Question and Answer Q.: I applied for my baby's Social

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Security number while in the hospital. It has been several weeks and I haven't gotten her card in the mail.

Should I re-apply?

A.: Sometimes it can take a little longer than usual for your card to arrive. As long as you completed the paperwork in the hospital, you can rest assured it's being processed. Some states take longer to process than others. If you need to show that you applied for your baby's card, you can use the receipt you got at the hospital when you submitted the application.

Reaching age 65 or full retirement age in 2008? - If you will turn 65 or reach full retirement age in 2008 and have not filed a Social Security or Medicare application, we can provide you with information that will be helpful in determining when to file an application. Mail us the following information:

- Your name.
- Social Security number.
- Estimated 2007 earnings.
- Estimated 2008 earnings.
- Complete mailing address.
- Telephone number (both home and work).
-Date of birth.
- If you plan to retire in 2008, month in which you would.
- Spouse's Social Security number.
- Spouse's date of birth.
- If spouse is deceased, give date of death.

Send it to: Your Social Security, Social Security Administration, 3885 Main St., 3rd Floor, Bridgeport CT 06606. Attn: A. Renzoni. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov or call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Anthony Renzoni is district manager of the Bridgeport office of the Social Security Administration. His column appears every Monday.