Where the Lancaster Social Security Office Is Located and How to Contact It

The Lancaster Social Security Office serves people in Lancaster County and surrounding areas who need to handle Social Security matters in person. The office is located at 24 North Queen Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603. You can reach them by phone at 1-717-299-1051. The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though hours may vary by season.

Before you visit or call, check the Social Security Administration's office locator at ssa.gov to confirm current hours, as staffing and schedules can change. Many people find it faster to call ahead rather than walk in, especially if you need a specific document or have a complex question. When you call, have your Social Security number ready and be prepared to describe what you need.

If you cannot reach the Lancaster office directly, you can also call the national Social Security customer service line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). This line can direct you to the right office, schedule an appointment, or handle some requests without requiring an in-person visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The Lancaster Social Security Office is at 24 North Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603, and is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Calling ahead at 1-717-299-1051 often saves time compared to walking in, especially for specific requests like replacing a lost card or changing your address.
  • The national Social Security line at 1-800-772-1213 can handle many requests without requiring a visit to the local office.
  • Bring your Social Security card, photo ID, and any documents related to your request when you visit in person.
  • Many Social Security tasks—including checking your earnings record and requesting a replacement card—can be done online at ssa.gov without visiting an office.

What You Can Do at the Lancaster Office in Person

The Lancaster office handles the most common Social Security tasks that require face-to-face verification. You can replace a lost or damaged Social Security card, update your address or name on file, report a change in your work status, or discuss retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. If you are explore for benefits for the first time, you can start the process at the office, though much of the paperwork can now be completed online before you arrive.

If you are already receiving benefits and need to report a change—such as a move, a change in income, or a family event—the office can help you update your record. You can also ask questions about your benefit amount, how work affects your benefits, or what documents you need for Medicare enrollment. The office staff cannot make decisions about your case on the spot, but they can explain what happens next and give you a timeline.

Documents to Bring When You Visit

Bring your Social Security card or a record of your Social Security number. You will also need a photo ID issued by a government agency—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you are explore for benefits or reporting a change, bring documents that support your request. For a name change, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For a retirement benefit process, bring your birth certificate and proof of citizenship or legal residency.

If you are explore for disability benefits, bring medical records, a list of doctors who have treated you, and dates of any hospitalizations. If you are reporting a change in work status, bring recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer. The office staff can tell you exactly what you need when you call to schedule an appointment, so you do not make a wasted trip.

When to Use Online Services Instead of Visiting

Many Social Security tasks do not require a visit to the office. You can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to view your earnings record, check your benefit estimate, and request a replacement Social Security card in most states. You can also change your address, report a change in your direct deposit information, or request a benefit verification letter online. These tasks typically take minutes and you receive confirmation when ready.

If you are under full retirement age and working, you can report your earnings online without calling or visiting. If you are receiving benefits and need to report a death in your family, you can do that through your my Social Security account as well. The online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you do not have to wait for office hours or take time off work.

What to Expect When You Call or Visit

If you call the Lancaster office, you may reach a staff member directly or be asked to leave a message. Response times vary depending on how busy the office is, but you should expect a call back within one or two business days. If you visit in person, you will likely wait in a queue and be assigned a number. Wait times vary widely—some days the office is quiet and you see someone within 15 minutes, while other days you may wait an hour or more.

When you speak with a staff member, they will ask you to verify your identity and explain what you need. They will then either help you on the spot or explain what happens next. For complex cases—such as a disability appeal or a question about how work affects your benefits—they may need to research your file and call you back later. Do not expect an when ready decision on any benefit claim; the office will tell you how long the process takes and what you will receive in the mail.

If You Cannot Visit in Person

You do not have to visit the office to handle most Social Security business. You can call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with someone by phone, and they can often complete your request without requiring a visit. You can also use your my Social Security account online to handle many tasks. If you are homebound or have mobility issues, you can request a phone appointment or ask whether a staff member can visit you at home, though this is available only in certain situations.

If you need an interpreter, call ahead and let the office know what language you speak. The Lancaster office can arrange an interpreter for your visit or phone call. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778 or relay services to contact Social Security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Lancaster Social Security Office?

Appointments are not required, but calling ahead to schedule one can reduce your wait time. You can also walk in during office hours, though you may wait longer during busy times. Call 1-717-299-1051 to ask about scheduling an appointment.

Can I replace my Social Security card without visiting the office?

In Pennsylvania, you can request a replacement card online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. The card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You only need to visit the office if you cannot use the online system or if you need the card urgently.

What if I need to explore for disability benefits?

You can start a disability process online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at the Lancaster office. Starting online or by phone is often faster because you do not have to wait for an appointment. The office can also help you complete the process if you prefer to do it in person.

How long does it take to get a decision on my benefit claim?

Retirement and survivor benefit claims usually take two to four weeks. Disability claims take much longer—typically three to six months for an initial decision. The office will give you a timeline when you explore and tell you how to check the status of your case online.

What if I disagree with a Social Security decision?

You have the right to appeal any Social Security decision. The Lancaster office can explain the appeal process and help you file a request for reconsideration. You must file your appeal within 60 days of receiving the decision, so act quickly if you disagree with the outcome.