Where the Winston-Salem Social Security office is located
The Social Security Administration office in Winston-Salem is at 801 West Fourth Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. This is a full-service office where you can handle most Social Security matters in person, including explore for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits; replacing a Social Security card; and updating your personal information.
The office is located downtown, near the intersection of West Fourth and North Cherry Street. If you are using GPS or a mapping app, search for "Social Security Administration Winston-Salem" to confirm current directions and parking options in the area.
Hours and how to contact the office
The Winston-Salem office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Hours can change without notice, so call ahead before you visit.
You can reach the Winston-Salem office by phone at 1-866-773-0563, which is the national Social Security customer service line. When you call, you can request to speak with someone at the Winston-Salem location or handle your matter over the phone. Wait times vary depending on the time of day and how busy the office is.
You can also visit the Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov to find additional contact options, including a message board where you can submit questions online.
What to bring when you visit in person
If you go to the office, bring documents that prove your identity and citizenship. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card works for identity. For citizenship, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers.
If you are explore for benefits, bring your most recent tax return or W-2 form, and the names and dates of birth for any family members who may be affected. If you are replacing a Social Security card, bring your state ID or driver's license. If you are updating information, bring proof of the change — for example, a marriage certificate if you changed your name.
The office staff can tell you exactly what documents you need for your specific situation when you call ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The Winston-Salem Social Security office is at 801 West Fourth Street, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- You can call the national Social Security line at 1-866-773-0563 to reach the Winston-Salem office or handle matters by phone.
- Bring a government-issued ID and proof of citizenship when you visit in person.
- The office handles retirement, disability, survivor benefits, Social Security card replacement, and personal information updates.
- Hours and services can change, so call or check ssa.gov before you visit to confirm what you need.
Alternatives to visiting the office in person
You do not have to visit the office to handle most Social Security matters. You can create an account on ssa.gov and manage your Social Security information online, including viewing your earnings record, changing your address, and requesting a replacement Social Security card in some states.
You can also call 1-866-773-0563 to speak with a representative by phone. Many people find this faster than waiting in the office, especially for straightforward questions or updates. If you need to submit documents, the representative can tell you how to mail or fax them.
If you have limited English proficiency, the Social Security Administration provides interpreters at the Winston-Salem office and over the phone. Call ahead to request an interpreter in your language.
What to expect when you arrive
When you arrive at the office, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait until your number is called. Wait times depend on how busy the office is that day; peak times are usually mid-morning and early afternoon.
If you have a complex matter or need to explore for benefits, the process may take longer than a straightforward card replacement or address change. The staff will let you know how long your matter typically takes when you check in.
If the wait is very long, you can ask the front desk staff whether you can come back at a slower time or handle your matter by phone instead.
Getting help if you cannot visit Winston-Salem
If you live outside Winston-Salem or cannot travel to the office, you can still reach Social Security by phone at 1-866-773-0563 or online at ssa.gov. The national line can connect you with a representative who can answer questions about your account or help you start an process.
If you live in a rural area or have transportation challenges, ask the representative about scheduling a phone appointment at a specific time so you do not have to wait in a queue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to visit the Winston-Salem office?
No appointment is required. The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You check in at the front desk, take a number, and wait to be called. However, you can call ahead to ask about wait times or to confirm that the office has the documents you need for your specific matter.
Can I handle my Social Security matter online instead of visiting the office?
Many matters can be handled online at ssa.gov or by phone. You can view your earnings record, change your address, request a replacement card in most states, and start an process for benefits online. Call 1-866-773-0563 if you are unsure whether your matter can be handled remotely.
What if I do not have all the documents the office asks for?
Call the office before you visit to ask what documents are absolutely required and what can be submitted later. In some cases, the staff can help you obtain missing documents or accept a statement from you if a document is not available. Do not assume you cannot proceed without every document.
How long does it take to replace a Social Security card at the office?
A replacement card typically takes 10 to 14 business days to arrive by mail after you explore. You cannot pick it up at the office the same day. The office will give you a receipt showing you applied, which you can use as proof of your Social Security number while you wait for the card.
Is there a Social Security office closer to me in the Triad area?
Yes. There are Social Security offices in Greensboro and High Point as well as Winston-Salem. Call 1-866-773-0563 and ask which office is nearest to you, or search "Social Security office near me" on ssa.gov to find all locations in North Carolina.