The main Social Security phone number is 1-800-772-1213, available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.

This is the general customer service line for questions about Social Security benefits, account changes, and benefit statements. You will reach an automated system first, which will route your call based on what you need. Wait times vary by time of day and season — early morning and mid-week calls typically have shorter waits than late afternoon or Monday morning.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, the TTY number is 1-800-325-0778, using the same hours. If you are calling from outside the United States, you can reach the Social Security Administration at 1-410-965-7700, though this line does not accept collect calls.

Key Takeaways

  • The main Social Security phone number is 1-800-772-1213, open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.
  • You will reach an automated system that asks what you need before connecting you to a representative or providing recorded information.
  • Call early in the week and early in the day to avoid the longest wait times, which often exceed 30 minutes during peak hours.
  • The TTY line for deaf and hard of hearing callers is 1-800-325-0778 during the same hours.
  • You can also create a my Social Security account online to check your benefit amount, request a replacement card, or change your address without calling.

What you can do on the automated system without waiting for a representative

The automated system at 1-800-772-1213 can handle several tasks without connecting you to a person. You can request a replacement Social Security card, report a change of address, ask for a benefit verification letter, or hear your current benefit amount. The system will ask you to enter your Social Security number and answer security questions to confirm your identity.

If you know exactly what you need and the system offers it as an option, using the automated menu saves time. However, if your question does not fit the standard options — for example, if you need to report unreported earnings or discuss a notice you received — you will need to wait for a representative.

When to use my Social Security account instead of calling

The Social Security Administration offers a free online account called my Social Security, which you can create at ssa.gov. Once you log in, you can view your earnings record, check your benefit amount, request a replacement card, change your address, and report a change in your direct deposit information. These tasks do not require a phone call and are available 24 hours a day.

Creating the account takes about 10 minutes and requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and an email address. You will also need to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by uploading a photo of your driver's license or passport. If you have already created an account, logging in is faster than calling, and you will have a record of what you submitted.

What to have ready before you call

Before you dial, gather your Social Security number, date of birth, and any relevant documents. If you are calling about a specific notice or letter from Social Security, have that in front of you. If you are reporting a change — such as a new address, a name change, or a change in work status — have the new information written down so you can provide it accurately.

If you are calling on behalf of someone else, you will need their permission and may need to provide a power of attorney or representative payee documentation. Social Security will not discuss another person's account with you without proof that you are authorized to do so.

Why you might be on hold for a long time

The Social Security Administration receives millions of calls each year, and staffing levels do not always match call volume. Wait times are longest in January and early February (when people call about tax documents), in September and October (when people turn 62 or 65 and call about retirement), and on Mondays and Fridays. Afternoons are typically busier than mornings.

If you reach the system during a very busy period, you may be offered a callback instead of waiting on hold. If you accept a callback, Social Security will call you back at the number you provide, usually within one business day. This is often faster than holding for 45 minutes or an hour.

Other ways to reach Social Security without calling

You can visit a local Social Security office in person. To find the office nearest you, go to ssa.gov and use the office locator, or call the main number and ask for the address. Many offices now require you to make an appointment before you visit, especially after 2 p.m. You can make an appointment online through my Social Security or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

You can also mail a written request to your local Social Security office. This is slower — typically taking two to four weeks — but it creates a paper record of what you submitted. If you need a replacement card or a benefit verification letter, mailing is a valid option if you are not in a hurry.

What to do if you cannot reach anyone

If you have called multiple times and cannot get through, try calling early in the morning — 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Eastern time — or on a Wednesday or Thursday. These times have the shortest wait times on average. If you need to speak to someone urgently, visiting a local office in person may be faster than calling.

If you received a notice from Social Security that requires a response by a certain date, and you cannot reach them by phone, you can respond by mail or in person at your local office. Keep a copy of everything you send. If you are having trouble understanding a notice, you can also ask a representative at your local office to explain it to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule a callback instead of waiting on hold?

Yes. When you call 1-800-772-1213, the automated system will offer you the option to receive a callback if wait times are long. You provide your phone number, and Social Security calls you back, usually within one business day. This avoids holding on the phone for an hour or more.

What if I need to report fraud or a stolen Social Security number?

Call 1-800-772-1213 and tell the automated system you need to report fraud. You will be routed to a representative who handles fraud cases. You can also report fraud online at ssa.gov/fraud or file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov.

Do I need to call if I just want to check my benefit amount?

No. Log into my Social Security at ssa.gov to see your current benefit amount, or use the automated phone system by calling 1-800-772-1213 and selecting the option to hear your benefit amount. Both are faster than waiting for a representative.

What if I am calling from outside the United States?

Call 1-410-965-7700. This line is available during the same hours as the domestic line (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time). The line does not accept collect calls, so you will need to pay for the international call yourself.

Can I call Social Security on weekends or after 7 p.m.?

The phone lines are not staffed on weekends or after 7 p.m. Eastern time. However, you can use my Social Security online 24 hours a day to check your benefit amount, request a card, or change your address. You can also visit a local office during business hours or mail a written request.