Where the Bronx Social Security office is located and what it handles
The Social Security Administration operates a field office in the Bronx at 1500 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx, NY 10461. This office processes applications for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits; issues Social Security cards; and handles changes to your account. It serves residents across the Bronx and parts of upper Manhattan and Westchester County.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though hours may vary by day. You do not need an appointment to walk in, but wait times can be long during peak hours — typically mid-morning and early afternoon. The office is accessible by public transit: the 2 and 5 subway lines stop at Pelham Parkway, about a 10-minute walk away.
Not all transactions require a visit. You can handle many requests online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or by mail. The office staff can tell you which option works for your specific need when you call ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The Bronx Social Security office is at 1500 Williamsbridge Road and is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no appointment required but expect wait times during mid-morning and early afternoon.
- You can handle many transactions online through my Social Security, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by mail without visiting the office in person.
- Bring a photo ID, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and any documents related to your specific request — such as a birth certificate for a name change or medical records for disability claims.
- If you cannot visit during regular hours, you can call the office directly at 718-960-4107 to ask about alternative options or to schedule a phone appointment.
What documents to bring when you visit
Bring a photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card — and proof of citizenship or legal residency. For U.S. citizens, a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers work. For non-citizens, bring your green card, visa, or employment authorization document.
What else you need depends on why you are there. For a Social Security card replacement, bring only your ID and proof of citizenship. For a retirement or disability claim, bring medical records (if you have them), work history, tax returns from the past two years, and a list of all your jobs and employers. For a name change, bring your ID, proof of citizenship, and the document showing your legal name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
If you are explore on behalf of someone else, bring a power of attorney document or guardianship papers. Call the office at 718-960-4107 before your visit to confirm you have everything needed for your specific request.
How to reach the office by phone or online
The national Social Security phone line is 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). This line handles most routine questions and can direct you to the Bronx office if needed. Wait times are typically shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can also call the Bronx office directly at 718-960-4107, though you may reach a voicemail during busy periods.
For many transactions, my Social Security at ssa.gov is faster than calling or visiting. You can create an account using your email, Social Security number, and date of birth. Once logged in, you can view your earnings record, request a replacement card, change your address, report a change in income, and start a retirement or disability claim online.
If you do not have internet access or prefer not to use it, you can request a paper form by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting the office. Forms can also be mailed to you, though processing by mail takes longer — typically two to four weeks versus a few days online.
When to visit in person versus using other options
Visit the office in person only if your transaction cannot be completed online or by phone. You must visit if you need a replacement Social Security card and cannot use the online request (available to citizens and some non-citizens), if you need to provide original documents that cannot be mailed, or if you are explore for benefits and the office asks you to come in for an interview.
Use the phone line or online account if you are reporting a change of address, requesting a benefit verification letter, checking your earnings record, or asking general questions about your account. These options are faster and do not require travel. If you are unsure whether you need to visit, call 718-960-4107 and describe what you need — the staff can tell you the best way to proceed.
If you have mobility issues or cannot take time off work, ask about a phone appointment when you call. The office can sometimes conduct interviews by phone instead of requiring an in-person visit.
What to expect during your visit
Arrive early if possible — the office opens at 9 a.m. and is usually least crowded in the first hour. You will check in at the front desk, receive a number, and wait to be called. Bring something to read; waits can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the day and time.
When you are called, a staff member will review your documents, ask questions about your request, and either complete your transaction on the spot or tell you what happens next. For applications, you will receive a receipt with a case number and timeline for a decision. For card replacements, you may receive your card the same day or it will be mailed within one to two weeks.
If the office cannot complete your request that day — for example, if they need to verify information with another agency — they will explain what they are waiting for and when you should expect to hear back. Keep your receipt and case number for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to a different Social Security office if the Bronx location is too crowded?
Yes. You can visit any Social Security office in New York State, though the Bronx office serves your area. Other nearby offices include Manhattan (366 Fifth Avenue) and Yonkers (33 South Drive). However, wait times are often similar across offices, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times may help you decide.
What if I do not have a birth certificate or proof of citizenship?
Contact the office at 718-960-4107 and explain what documents you have. Staff can tell you what alternatives they accept — for example, a baptism record, school records, or a passport. You may need to obtain a birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, which can take several weeks.
How long does it take to get a Social Security card after I explore?
If you explore online through my Social Security, your card typically arrives within one to two weeks. If you explore in person at the office, you may receive it the same day or it will be mailed within one to two weeks. Processing times can vary, so ask for an expected date when you submit your process.
Can I bring someone with me to help translate or information?
Yes. You can bring a family member, friend, or professional interpreter. If you need a professional interpreter, call the office at 718-960-4107 in advance so they can arrange one. The office provides interpretation services in many languages at no cost.
What if I need to report fraud or a stolen Social Security number?
Call the Social Security fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or visit ssa.gov/fraud. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. Do not visit the office for fraud — these reports are handled through specialized channels and the office staff will direct you to the right place if you call.