There are times when it is necessary to contact your local Social Security office to provide or ask for information regarding your Social Security Benefits.  Here are some tips to make the most out of your time and energy in contacting your local Social Security office:

  • Local Social Security offices continue to offer more in-person appointments and help people without an appointment. While Social Security is expanding their in-person service (after the Covid closures), it is strongly recommended that beneficiaries go online, call the local office for help, and schedule appointments in advance.
  • The online services (mySSA.gov) allow you to apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits online. You can also go online to check the status of an application or appeal, request a replacement Social Security Card, print a verification letter and more!
  • For those who are unable to complete their business online there is a toll-free number for the Social Security Administration (SSA). They can be contacted at 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time to speak to a representative.
    • For quicker access to a representative, try calling early in the day (between 8 am and 10 am local time) or later in the afternoon (between 4 pm and 7 pm local time). The offices are less busy later in the week (Wednesday through Friday) and later in the month.
    • The SSA’s automated telephone services are available 24 hours a day without speaking to a representative.
  • While appointments are not required, they are strongly recommended. An appointment reduces the wait time and ensures that you will know what documents to bring so that your request in one visit. Offices tend to be less busy later in the day, later in the week, and later in the month.
  • To learn more about scheduling an appointment, and the safety measures and potential restrictions before visiting your local office; visit the webpage “How to Get Help from Social Security”.
    Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) | How to Get Help from Social Security | SSA

‘Till next time,

Becky