Three ways to set up a time to meet with Social Security
You can schedule an appointment with Social Security by phone, online, or in person at your local office. The phone method is fastest for most people — you call a single number and book a time. The online method works if you have a my Social Security account. Walking into an office without an appointment is possible but means a longer wait.
Which method works best depends on what you need to discuss and whether you already have a my Social Security account set up. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, Social Security offers a video relay service during phone calls. If you speak a language other than English, interpreters are available at in-person appointments.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to book an appointment by phone; this is the fastest method for most people.
- You can book online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov if you already have one set up.
- Walk-in appointments are possible at your local Social Security office, but you will wait longer than if you scheduled ahead.
- Social Security offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some offices close for lunch.
- Bring documents that prove who you are, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card.
Calling Social Security to book an appointment
Call 1-800-772-1213 to reach Social Security's main appointment line. The phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your Social Security number ready when you call. The representative will ask what you need to discuss, then offer you available times at your nearest office.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778. If you speak Spanish, press 2 after you reach the main line. For other languages, Social Security can arrange an interpreter, but you may need to call ahead to request one.
When you call, tell the representative your preferred office location. Social Security will offer you a time slot, usually within one to two weeks. Write down the date, time, and office address. The representative will also tell you what documents to bring.
Booking online through my Social Security
If you have a my Social Security account, you can book an appointment on ssa.gov without calling. Log in to your account, go to the "Appointments" section, and select "Schedule an appointment." The website will show available times at your nearest office.
You must have a my Social Security account to use this method. If you do not have one, you can create it on ssa.gov. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a driver's license or state ID number.
The online booking system works 24 hours a day, so you can schedule at any time. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.
Walking in without an appointment
You can visit your local Social Security office without scheduling ahead, but you will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some close for lunch between noon and 1 p.m. Arrive early if you walk in, because wait times can be one to two hours or longer during busy times.
To find your nearest office, go to ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. The website shows the office address, phone number, and hours. Some offices have posted wait times online so you can see how busy they are before you go.
What to bring to your appointment
Bring a document that proves who you are. Social Security accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. If you do not have one of these, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a bank statement.
Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though it is not required. If you are discussing benefits, bring any documents related to your case — for example, a medical report if you are discussing disability, or a marriage certificate if you are discussing a spouse's benefits.
If someone else is going with you to help, they can attend the appointment, but Social Security may ask to speak with you alone for part of it.
What happens at your appointment
The representative will verify your identity using the documents you brought. They will ask you questions about why you are there and what you need. If you are explore for benefits, they will take your process. If you are asking about your account, they will look up your information and answer your questions.
Appointments usually last 15 to 30 minutes, depending on what you need. If your case is complicated, the representative may schedule a follow-up appointment or tell you they will contact you by mail or phone with an answer.
If you cannot make your appointment
If you need to reschedule, call 1-800-772-1213 as soon as you know you cannot go. You can also reschedule online through your my Social Security account if you have one. If you miss an appointment without calling to cancel, Social Security may close your case or delay processing your request.
If you have a medical emergency or transportation problem that prevents you from attending, call the office directly to explain. Social Security may be able to reschedule you quickly or handle your matter over the phone instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do a video appointment instead of going in person?
Social Security does not offer routine video appointments. However, if you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to travel, call your local office to ask if they can handle your matter by phone or mail instead. Some offices may work with you on a case-by-case basis.
How long does it take to get an appointment?
If you call or book online, you can usually get an appointment within one to two weeks. During busy times, it may take longer. Walk-in appointments have no wait for scheduling but a longer wait in the office itself.
What if I need an interpreter?
Social Security provides interpreters at in-person appointments at no cost. When you call to book, tell the representative what language you speak, and they will arrange an interpreter. For phone appointments, interpreters are also available but must be requested when you schedule.
Can someone else schedule an appointment for me?
Yes, a family member or representative can call on your behalf. They will need your Social Security number and permission to discuss your case. If you have a legal representative, they can also schedule appointments for you.
What if my local office is closed?
If your office is temporarily closed, call 1-800-772-1213 to find the nearest open office. Social Security will schedule you at a different location or handle your matter by phone or mail if possible.