You can schedule most Social Security appointments through their website or by phone, but the online method is faster and available 24 hours

Social Security lets you book appointments for services like getting a replacement card, updating your information, or discussing benefits through their my Social Security online account. You create a free account, log in, and pick an available time slot — no phone hold time required. The appointment happens either in person at your local Social Security office or by video call from home, depending on what you need and what your office offers.

Not every service can be scheduled online. Disability hearings, appeals, and some complex benefit questions still require a phone call or in-person visit. But for routine tasks — the kind most people need — the online system works and is usually faster than calling 1-800-772-1213.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a my Social Security account to book online; creating one takes about 10 minutes and requires your Social Security number, email, and a way to verify your identity.
  • Once logged in, you can see available appointment times at your local office and choose video or in-person, then receive a confirmation number by email.
  • Routine appointments like card replacement or address changes can usually be done online; disability and appeal hearings cannot.
  • If you cannot create an online account or need a service not available through the website, calling 1-800-772-1213 is your next step.

Creating and logging into your my Social Security account

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "my Social Security" link, usually near the top of the page. Click "Create an account." You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a phone number. Social Security will ask you to verify your identity — this usually means answering questions about your credit history or past addresses, or uploading a photo of your driver's license or state ID.

The identity verification step can take a few minutes or a few hours depending on the method you choose. If you already have a my Social Security account, just log in with your username and password. If you forgot your password, use the "Forgot username or password?" link on the login page to reset it.

Finding and booking your appointment

After you log in, look for a button or link that says "Schedule an appointment" or "Book an appointment." The website will ask you what you need — for example, "Get a replacement Social Security card," "Update your information," or "Discuss your benefits." Select the service that matches your reason.

Next, enter your zip code or choose your local Social Security office from a list. The system shows you available dates and times, usually several weeks out. Pick the slot that works for you. You will then choose whether you want to come in person or have a video appointment if both are offered. Complete the booking, and Social Security sends a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and office address or video call link.

Keep that confirmation email. Bring the appointment number with you if you go in person, or use the link in the email to join the video call at the scheduled time.

What services you can book online versus by phone

Online appointments work well for straightforward tasks: getting a replacement Social Security card, updating your address or phone number, reporting a name change, or asking general questions about your benefits. You can also use an online appointment to discuss applying for retirement, survivor, or disability benefits, though the actual application may need to be completed over the phone or in person.

Services that require a phone call or in-person visit include disability hearings before a judge, appeals of denied benefits, and complex situations involving work history or multiple benefits. If you try to book online and your service is not listed, the website will tell you to call 1-800-772-1213 instead.

Video appointments versus in-person visits

Video appointments let you meet with a Social Security representative from home using your computer, tablet, or phone. You need a working camera, microphone, and internet connection. The video call link comes in your confirmation email — click it a few minutes before your appointment time. Video appointments work for most routine services and are often faster because there is no travel time.

In-person appointments happen at your local Social Security office. You will need to bring identification — a driver's license, passport, or state ID — and any documents related to your reason for visiting, such as a birth certificate if you are changing your name or a lease if you are updating your address. In-person visits are necessary if you need to sign documents or if you do not have reliable internet or a camera at home.

What to do if you cannot book online

If you cannot create a my Social Security account because identity verification fails, or if the service you need is not available online, call 1-800-772-1213. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.

You can also visit your local Social Security office in person without an appointment, though wait times are often longer. Find your nearest office by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator. Some offices accept walk-ins during certain hours; call ahead to ask.

Preparing for your appointment

Before your appointment, gather any documents you might need. For a replacement card, you need proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and a photo ID. For an address change, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. For a name change, bring a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the new name.

Write down any questions you have ahead of time. If you are discussing benefits, have your work history or recent pay stubs available. For a video appointment, test your camera and microphone a few minutes early to make sure they work. For an in-person visit, plan to arrive 10 minutes early and bring all required documents in a folder so you do not forget anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an appointment?

Wait times vary by location and season. In many areas, you can book an appointment two to four weeks out. During busy periods, it may take longer. If you need an urgent appointment, call 1-800-772-1213 and explain your situation — some offices hold slots for emergencies.

Can I reschedule or cancel my appointment online?

Yes. Log back into your my Social Security account, find your upcoming appointment, and look for a "Reschedule" or "Cancel" button. You can then pick a new time or cancel entirely. You will receive a new confirmation email with the updated details.

What if I miss my appointment?

Call 1-800-772-1213 as soon as possible to reschedule. Missing an appointment does not affect your benefits, but it delays whatever you needed to do. Rescheduling by phone is usually faster than waiting for the next available online slot.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to an in-person appointment?

No. Bring a photo ID like a driver's license or passport instead. If you are there to get a replacement card, you will not have one to bring anyway. Social Security can look up your information using your Social Security number.

Can someone else schedule an appointment on my behalf?

Only if you give them access to your my Social Security account or authorize them as a representative. Otherwise, they can call 1-800-772-1213 and ask to schedule on your behalf, though Social Security may ask to verify your identity or consent first.