How do i make appointment with social security office

You can apply for, replace, or modify your Social Security card. You also can find out how to get a different Social Security number. 

Social Security cards are free. There is no cost to apply. 

If you are requesting a new card, you must apply by mail or in person at a Social Security office. If you need a replacement card and are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with valid state-issued identification, you can also apply online using your "my Social Security account."

Find a Social Security Office.

Get a new Social Security number.

Required Documents for Applying for a Social Security Card

Your application for a Social Security number and card must include two personal identification documents: 

  • Your birth certificate or your passport

Plus one of these unexpired photo IDs: 

  • U.S. driver license
  • Non-driver State ID  (or non-driver photo ID card)
  • Passport 
  • Employee ID card
  • School ID card
  • Health insurance card
  • U.S. military ID card

Your application in person or by mail must include original documents (not photocopies). Your original IDs will be returned to you.

Apply for a Social Security card.

Required Documents for Replacing a Social Security Card

Your application for a replacement Social Security card must include one of these original, unexpired photo IDs: 

  • U.S. driver license
  • Non-driver State ID  (or non-driver photo ID card)
  • Passport 
  • Employee ID card
  • School ID card
  • Health insurance card
  • U.S. military ID card

Your application in person or by mail must include the original ID (not a photocopy). Your original ID will be returned to you.

Replace a Social Security card.

Change your name on your Social Security card.

Additional Assistance

You can get more information and assistance through the Social Security Administration.

Online

Get Social Security information and assistance.

By Phone

  • Agency: United States Social Security Administration
  • Phone Number: (800) 772-1213
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 7 AM - 7 PM
  • Staff is available through the automated phone system during business hours. Automated assistance is also available in Spanish. Most languages are available through a staff person.

The Social Security Administration in March 2020 stopped face-to-face service with the public at the more than 1,200 field offices nationwide except in “limited, critical situations” due to the covid-19 pandemic. Until offices reopen, which may be finally happening after two years, beneficiaries can conduct business with the agency online, via fax or by phone including critical services.

The Social Security Administration considers the following situations as limited and critical: When a person lacks food or shelter, including utilities or in the event they do not have medical care or coverage and they are looking to reinstate or apply for benefits. Likewise, beneficiaries that cannot receive their benefits payment electronically and are in urgent need of one to cover food, shelter, or medical treatment expenses.

Also see:

  • Where can I use WIC and EBT food stamps?
  • Congressional Democrats eye spring to revive Biden’s agenda
  • States sending residents extra money in 2022
  • How can I apply for Supplemental Security Income?

Scheduling an appointment with your local Social Security office

The agency is aiming to reopen offices for face-to-face services with the public at the end of March. Until then, the Social Security Administration provides a guide on conducting business during the pandemic with the agency.

Those that think they meet the requisites for an in-person appointment can contact their local office to arrange an appointment. The Social Security Administration advises that appointments will depend on staffing as well as the local health and safety conditions. However, if you do not qualify for an in-person appointment you can still contact the agency or use the expanded online services.

Wondering what day of the month you’ll get your Social Security payment? Our payment schedule has not changed. For most Social Security benefits, payment dates are based on your birthdate. We issue SSI payments at the beginning of the month. Learn more: https://t.co/9xfyFXwXr6 pic.twitter.com/kqrnUKgbcL

— Social Security (@SocialSecurity) February 9, 2022

Contact the Social Security Administration toll-free by phone

The Social Security Administration provides toll-free National 800 number service to members of the public. Representatives are available between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday at 1-800-772-1213. The agency advises 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 hearing

Those 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 callers

Those 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.

Online Social Security services

Throughout the pandemic, the SSA has expanded the number of services that can be completed online. Before many applicants needed to visit an Social Security office to apply for benefits, now “you can apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare 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.”

How to get access to a “my Social Security” account?

Setting up an online secure account is quick and easy, which you can do online or in person, once offices reopen if you are unable to get an in-person appointment now. For those who are 18 and older, all you need is a US mailing address, valid email address and a Social Security number.

If you don’t already have the app on your smartphone, you will want to download the app to your phone before you get started.

How can I make an appointment at my local Social Security office?

If you do need an appointment you can schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment by calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday or contacting your local Social Security office.

What is the maximum Social Security benefit?

The maximum benefit depends on the age you retire. For example, if you retire at full retirement age in 2022, your maximum benefit would be $3,345. However, if you retire at age 62 in 2022, your maximum benefit would be $2,364. If you retire at age 70 in 2022, your maximum benefit would be $4,194.

How can I check my Social Security benefits?

Still have questions? If you have questions or need help understanding how to check the status of your Social Security application online, call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your Social Security office.