The Scranton Social Security office location and hours
The Social Security Administration office serving Scranton is located at 100 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503. This is a full-service office where you can handle most Social Security matters in person, including requesting a replacement Social Security card, reporting a change in your circumstances, or discussing your benefits.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on federal holidays. You do not need an appointment to walk in, but wait times vary depending on the day and time you visit. Mornings and early in the week typically have shorter lines than late afternoons or Fridays.
The office serves residents of Lackawanna County and surrounding areas. If you live outside this region, you can still contact this office by phone or mail, but you may find it more convenient to visit the Social Security office nearest your home.
Key Takeaways
- The Scranton Social Security office is at 100 Lackawanna Avenue and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no appointment required.
- You can handle most Social Security tasks in person, including card replacements, benefit inquiries, and reporting life changes.
- You can also reach the office by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (the national Social Security number) or by visiting ssa.gov to handle some matters online.
- Bring a photo ID and any documents related to your reason for visiting, such as a birth certificate for a name change or proof of income for benefit questions.
What you can do at the Scranton office in person
The Scranton office handles the full range of Social Security services. You can request a replacement Social Security card if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged. You can report a name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order. You can also report changes in your living situation, income, or family status that may affect your benefits.
If you receive Social Security benefits and need to discuss your payment amount, payment schedule, or tax documents like your SSA-1099, you can speak with a representative in person. The office can also help if you have questions about Medicare enrollment or if you are nearing retirement age and want to discuss when to claim benefits.
For matters that do not require a signature or original documents, you may be able to handle them by phone or online instead of visiting in person. The Social Security website at ssa.gov lets you create an account, check your earnings record, and request some documents without leaving home.
How to contact the office by phone or mail
The national Social Security phone line is 1-800-772-1213. This number connects you to representatives who can answer questions about benefits, help you report changes, and direct you to the right office for your needs. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You may experience longer wait times during peak hours, typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon.
If you prefer to write, you can mail documents to the Scranton office at 100 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503. Include a cover letter explaining what you need and your Social Security number. Mail typically takes one to two weeks to process, so use this method only if you do not need a response quickly.
You can also create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to check your benefits, view your earnings history, and request a replacement Social Security card without calling or visiting. The account requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and an email address.
Documents to bring when you visit
Bring a photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two other forms of identification such as a birth certificate, utility bill, or bank statement.
Bring any documents related to your reason for visiting. For a replacement Social Security card, bring your birth certificate or passport. For a name change, bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For benefit questions, bring recent pay stubs or tax returns if you are reporting income changes.
If you are explore for benefits for the first time, bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of income such as W-2 forms or tax returns for the past two years. The office staff can tell you exactly what you need when you call ahead or arrive.
Parking and accessibility at the Scranton location
The office building at 100 Lackawanna Avenue has street parking available nearby. There is no dedicated office parking lot, so you may need to circle the block or use a nearby parking garage depending on the time of day.
The building is wheelchair accessible with an elevator to the Social Security office. If you have mobility concerns or other accessibility needs, call ahead at 1-800-772-1213 to let the office know you are coming, and staff can help you move through the process more quickly.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and explain what you need. You will receive a number and wait for your turn. The wait can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on how busy the office is that day. Bring something to read or use your phone while you wait.
When called, you will meet with a representative at a desk or window. Explain your situation clearly and have your documents ready. The representative will tell you what you need to do next, whether that is submitting forms, providing additional information, or returning at a later date if your matter requires processing time.
Most straightforward requests like a replacement card or reporting a change of address can be handled the same day. More complex matters like a first-time benefit claim may require you to return or complete additional steps by mail or phone.
Alternatives if you cannot visit in person
If you cannot travel to Scranton, you have several other options. The national phone line at 1-800-772-1213 can handle many requests without a visit. You can also create a my Social Security account online to check your benefits and request a replacement card.
If you live in a different part of Pennsylvania or a nearby state, you can visit a Social Security office closer to your home. Every county has at least one office, and many larger cities have multiple locations. Call 1-800-772-1213 to find the office nearest you.
For matters that require documents or signatures, you can mail them to the Scranton office or your local office. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and a clear explanation of what you need. Keep copies of everything you send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to visit the Scranton Social Security office?
No, the office accepts walk-ins during business hours. However, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about current wait times or to request a callback appointment if you prefer not to wait in the office.
Can I handle my Social Security matter online instead of visiting?
Many matters can be handled online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov, including checking your benefits, viewing your earnings record, and requesting a replacement card. Some matters still require a phone call or in-person visit, so check the website first to see if your need is covered.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
Bring two other forms of identification such as a birth certificate, utility bill, bank statement, or insurance card. The office staff will let you know if what you bring is acceptable.
How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card?
A replacement card typically arrives by mail within one to two weeks after you submit your request in person or online. If you need it faster, ask the office about expedited options when you visit or call.
Can I call the Scranton office directly instead of using the national number?
The national number 1-800-772-1213 is the main way to reach Social Security. It routes your call to the appropriate office based on your needs. You cannot call the Scranton office directly, but representatives on the national line can connect you with local staff if needed.