Social Security offices are closing temporarily in many locations, but you can still handle most business without visiting in person

The Social Security Administration has announced temporary office closures across the country. These closures affect walk-in service and in-person appointments, but they do not stop Social Security from processing claims, sending payments, or handling most requests. You have other ways to reach Social Security that work during closures: phone lines, online accounts, and mail.

The closures are temporary. Social Security has not announced a permanent end date for all locations, so check your local office's status before making a trip. Some offices may reopen on different schedules. The best first step is to find out whether your office is closed and for how long.

Key Takeaways

  • Call Social Security's main line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to reach a representative even when your local office is closed.
  • Create or log into your account at ssa.gov/myaccount to view your earnings record, check application status, and request a replacement card without visiting an office.
  • Mail requests to your local Social Security office still work during closures; include your Social Security number and a clear description of what you need.
  • If you need an in-person appointment after your office reopens, call ahead to schedule rather than showing up without one.
  • Temporary closures do not delay Social Security payments; direct deposit and checks continue on schedule.

How to learn about your local office is closed

Social Security publishes a list of closed offices on its website at ssa.gov. Go to the office locator, enter your zip code, and look for a notice next to your local office name. The notice will say whether it is closed temporarily and, if known, when it will reopen.

You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your specific office. A representative can tell you the closure status and direct you to the nearest open office if you need one. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Handling Social Security business by phone

The phone line 1-800-772-1213 handles most requests: reporting a death, requesting a replacement Social Security card, asking about your benefits, reporting a change of address, and starting a new claim. You do not need to visit an office for these tasks. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.

Wait times vary. If you reach an automated system first, you can request a callback instead of holding. Social Security will call you back within 24 hours during business days. This option is available for many types of calls and saves you from sitting on hold.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY line at 1-800-325-0778. Video relay services and other relay systems also work with Social Security's main number.

Using your online Social Security account

Create a free account at ssa.gov/myaccount if you do not have one. You can view your earnings record, check the status of a pending claim, request a replacement card, and change your address without calling or visiting an office. The account works 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To create an account, you will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a driver's license, passport, or state ID number. The verification step takes a few minutes. Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime to check your information or make changes.

If you have already started a claim for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, your account will show you where it stands in the process. You can also see the date Social Security expects to make a decision.

Requesting documents and services by mail

You can mail a request to your local Social Security office even during a closure. Include your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and a clear description of what you need. For a replacement card, include a copy of your birth certificate or passport. For earnings record changes, include the specific year and employer you are asking about.

Mail takes longer than phone or online — typically two to four weeks for a response. If you need something urgently, call instead. If you are mailing a request, keep a copy for your records and consider sending it certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

Address your envelope to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov by searching for your office.

What happens to your Social Security payments during closures

Your monthly benefit payment continues on schedule. If you receive direct deposit, the money goes into your bank account on the same day it always does. If you receive a check by mail, it arrives on your regular payment date. Office closures do not delay payments.

If you have a question about your payment amount or payment date, call 1-800-772-1213 or log into your online account. You do not need to visit an office to resolve a payment issue.

When you might need to visit an office after it reopens

Most Social Security business can be handled by phone, mail, or online. However, some situations may require an in-person visit once your office reopens: if you need to provide original documents that Social Security cannot accept by mail, if you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and need to report your resources in person, or if a representative asks you to come in to complete your claim.

When your office reopens, call ahead to schedule an appointment rather than walking in. This ensures a representative will be available and reduces your wait time. Social Security prioritizes appointments over walk-ins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Social Security check or direct deposit be late because of the office closure?

No. Office closures do not affect when Social Security sends payments. Your check or direct deposit will arrive on your regular payment date. If you do not receive it by the expected date, call 1-800-772-1213 to report it.

Can I get a replacement Social Security card without visiting an office?

Yes. You can request one online at ssa.gov/myaccount or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can also mail a request to your local office with a copy of your birth certificate or passport. Processing takes one to two weeks.

What if I need to report a change, like a new address or name change?

Call 1-800-772-1213 or update your address online through your ssa.gov account. You can also mail a written request to your local office. Name changes usually require you to provide a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, which you can mail or bring in person once your office reopens.

How long will the office closures last?

Social Security has not announced a single end date for all closures. Different offices may reopen at different times. Check ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to find out the expected reopening date for your local office.

What if I am in the middle of applying for benefits when my office closes?

Your application continues to be processed. Log into your ssa.gov account to check the status. If Social Security needs more information from you, they will contact you by phone or mail. You do not need to visit an office to complete your application.