Where to reach Social Security
Social Security has three main ways to contact them: by phone, by mail, or through their website. The fastest route depends on what you need. Phone lines are busiest early in the week and early in the month. If you call, expect to wait 15 to 30 minutes during peak times, though some calls go through faster in the afternoon. Mail takes two to four weeks for a response.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have local offices in every town anymore. Most in-person services moved online or to phone lines starting in 2022. If you need to visit an office in person, you can find the nearest one through their office locator on ssa.gov, but calling ahead is necessary — walk-ins are not accepted at most locations.
Key Takeaways
- The main Social Security phone line is 1-800-772-1213, open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.
- You can create a my Social Security account on ssa.gov to view your earnings record, check your benefit amount, and handle some requests without calling.
- Mail addressed to Social Security should go to the address listed on your Social Security card or statement, which varies by region.
- TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778 during the same hours as the main line.
- Social Security does not contact people first by email or text to ask for personal information — any message claiming to be from them asking for your number or password is a scam.
The main Social Security phone line and what to expect
The general Social Security phone number is 1-800-772-1213. This line handles questions about retirement benefits, disability (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicare, and replacement documents like a Social Security card. You can call Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. The line is closed on federal holidays.
When you call, you will reach an automated system first. You can press numbers to reach different departments or say what you need. If you need a representative, stay on the line or press the option for a live person. Wait times vary widely. Calling after 2 p.m. Eastern or on Thursday and Friday often means shorter waits than calling Monday morning. If you cannot reach someone, you can request a callback instead of waiting on hold.
Have your Social Security number ready when you call. If you are calling about someone else's account — a spouse, parent, or child — you will need their number and proof that you are authorized to discuss their case. Social Security will not discuss anyone's benefits with you unless you are the account holder or have power of attorney or guardianship.
Using my Social Security online to avoid the phone line
Creating a my Social Security account on ssa.gov lets you handle many tasks without calling. You can view your earnings record, check how much your retirement or disability benefit will be, change your address, report a change in income (for SSI), and request a replacement Social Security card in some states. You can also message Social Security through your account and track the status of requests you have already made.
To create an account, go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Create an account." You will need your email address, a password, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or a credit card on file. The verification process takes a few minutes. Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime to check information or submit requests.
Not every state allows you to request a replacement Social Security card online yet. If your state does not, you will need to mail an process or visit an office. The my Social Security website will tell you whether your state offers online card replacement.
Mailing documents or requests to Social Security
If you need to mail something to Social Security, the address depends on what you are sending and which state you live in. Do not mail anything to a general Social Security office address — mail goes to a processing center specific to your state and the type of request.
The correct mailing address for your situation is listed on ssa.gov under "Mailing Your Documents." You can also find it on any official Social Security form you are using. If you are mailing a request related to your benefits, include your Social Security number and a phone number where they can reach you. Mail takes two to four weeks to process, longer during busy periods.
Always keep a copy of anything you mail and consider sending it certified mail with return receipt if the request is time-sensitive or involves a lot of documentation. This gives you proof that Social Security received it.
TTY and other accessibility options
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can use TTY (text telephone) by calling 1-800-325-0778 during the same hours as the main line: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. TTY calls go through a relay service, so the wait may be slightly longer than a voice call.
Social Security also offers video relay service and internet relay service for people who prefer those methods. Information about these options is on ssa.gov under "Accessibility." If you use a relay service, tell the relay operator that you are calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, and they will connect you.
Spotting Social Security scams
Social Security will never contact you first by email, text, or phone call to ask for your Social Security number, password, or bank account information. If you receive a message claiming to be from Social Security asking for these details, it is a scam. Do not click links in unsolicited emails or texts, and do not call phone numbers in those messages.
If you think you have been contacted by a scammer pretending to be Social Security, you can report it to the Office of Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-269-0271. You can also report scam calls and texts to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Real Social Security mail comes in an envelope with the Social Security Administration seal. If you are unsure whether a letter is real, call the main Social Security number above and ask. Do not use a phone number from the suspicious letter.
Finding a local Social Security office
Most Social Security services are now handled by phone or online, but some people still need to visit an office in person — for example, to explore for a replacement Social Security card if your state does not offer online replacement, or to sign documents in person. To find the nearest office, go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code. The locator will show you the address, phone number, and hours.
Call the office before you go. Many offices require an appointment, and some have limited hours. Walk-in service is not available at most locations. When you call to schedule, ask what documents you need to bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day is the Social Security phone line least busy?
Afternoons (after 2 p.m. Eastern) and late in the week (Thursday and Friday) typically have shorter wait times than mornings and early in the week. Calling after the first week of the month also tends to be faster, since many people call to report changes or ask about payments early in the month.
Can I request a callback instead of waiting on hold?
Yes. When you call 1-800-772-1213, the automated system will offer you the option to request a callback. Social Security will call you back during business hours, usually within one to two business days. You do not have to stay on the phone waiting.
What do I need to bring if I visit a Social Security office in person?
Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your Social Security card if you have it. If you are explore for a replacement card or reporting a change, bring any documents that support your request — a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or proof of address, depending on what you need. Call the office ahead of time to ask what specific documents your situation requires.
Is my Social Security account information safe on ssa.gov?
The my Social Security website uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. However, you are responsible for keeping your password find and not sharing it. If you think someone has accessed your account without permission, change your password when ready and call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to report it.
How do I report a change in my income or living situation?
If you receive SSI, you can report changes through your my Social Security account, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by mail. If you receive retirement or disability benefits, most changes can be reported through your online account or by calling. Call or check your benefit letter to find out which changes you must report — not all changes affect your benefits.