The Social Security Administration assigns Social Security numbers, and administers the Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability insurance programs. They also administer the Supplemental Security Income program for the aged, blind, and disabled. Show
Agency DetailsAcronym:SSA Website:Social Security Administration (SSA) Contact:Contact the Social Security Administration Local Offices:Find a Social Security Office Near You Main Address:6401 Security Blvd. Toll Free:1-800-772-1213 TTY:1-800-325-0778 Forms:Social Security Administration Forms Government branch:Independent Agency Popular Services from Social Security AdministrationRetirement Benefits Disability Benefits Get, Replace, or Correct a Social Security Card MySocialSecurity Online Account Social Security's Popular Baby Names Related Agency
The Social Security Administration had its offices shuttered to the public except in “limited, critical situations” for two years due to the covid-19 pandemic. In April this year though field offices began to reopen for walk-in consultations but covid-19 protocols have seen long lines form outside their doors. The agency “strongly” encourages people who can, that they should use the online services or call. Those that need to come to an office should make an appointment to avoid encountering delays or long wait times. Also see:
How to find an SSA office and make an appointmentThroughout the pandemic, the SSA has expanded the number of services that can be completed online. Before many applicants that needed to visit a Social Security office to apply for benefits, can now apply for disability, Medicare, retirement and spousal benefits online. Additionally, the site allows beneficiaries to “check the status of your claim or appeal, request a replacement Social Security card in most states, get an instant proof of income letter, and much more.” For those that do need to visit one of their nearly 1,200 field offices they can use the Social Security online locator. You can use your zip code to find the one closest to you and get the contact number to arrange an appointment. It’s advised though to check the listing of Office Closings and Emergencies to see if you should find an alternate office. You can also schedule, reschedule or cancel an appointment by calling the national toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm. How to contact the SSAPeople that do not want to apply for benefits online, or need to speak to the SSA for any other reason can also call the national toll-free number. Be advised that wait times are typically shorter later in the day and Wednesdays through Fridays. Spanish speakers can receive assistance by calling the same toll-free number and informing the pre-recorded system or representative that they would like to talk to a representative in Spanish. For those who cannot make a call during these times, “recorded information and services are available 24 hours a day and on weekends.” Deaf and hard of hearingThose who are deaf or hard of hearing can call toll-free at 1-800-325-0778 to resolve any benefit issues or get their questions answered. The line is available from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday. International callersThose who cannot call the National 800 number because they are located outside of the United States can use the following number, 410-965-0160. Callers should be aware that this is not a toll-free number, and they will have to assume any costs associated with the call. Representatives are available at this number on weekdays between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm Eastern US Time. Local Social Security offices are offering more in-person appointments and have resumed in-person service for people without an appointment1. As we expand in-person service, we expect our offices to be very busy. We strongly encourage you to continue to go online, call us for help, and schedule appointments in advance. If you visit an office, please keep these very important points in mind: View
a list of offices closed to in-person service (telephone only) or providing in-person service only by appointment at our Office Closings and Emergencies webpage. If you are thinking about appealing a decision, or you have an appeal pending, we want you to know you have options that could help you have your hearing sooner. Is it time for
your COVID-19 vaccine booster? Find free vaccines near you at www.vaccine.gov. What is the best time to call the SSA?You can call our National 800 Number at 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wait times to speak to a representative are typically shorter early in the day (between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. local time) or later in the afternoon (between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. local time).
Does Social Security get in touch with you by phone?What should I do if I get a call claiming there's a problem with my Social Security number or account? If there is a problem, we will mail you a letter. Generally, we will only contact you if you have requested a call or have ongoing business with us.
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