Where to find Social Security help in Redding
Redding has one Social Security office located at 2365 Eureka Way, Redding, CA 96001. This is a full-service office where you can handle most Social Security matters in person, including applying for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits; replacing a Social Security card; or updating your account information.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. Because wait times can be long during peak hours, Social Security recommends arriving early or calling ahead. You can reach the Redding office directly at 1-866-331-1488 to ask about current wait times or to schedule an appointment.
If you cannot visit in person, you can handle many tasks online through your personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or by mail. The national phone line has interpreters available for languages other than English.
Key Takeaways
- Redding's Social Security office is at 2365 Eureka Way and is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though you can call 1-866-331-1488 to confirm hours or schedule an appointment.
- You can handle most Social Security tasks online through my Social Security, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by mail without visiting the office.
- The national Social Security phone line has interpreters for languages other than English and can process many requests without an office visit.
- Arriving early or scheduling an appointment ahead of time reduces wait times at the Redding office.
What you can do at the Redding office
The Redding Social Security office handles the full range of Social Security services. You can apply for retirement benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or survivor benefits. You can also replace a lost or stolen Social Security card, update your name or address, report a change in your work status, or resolve problems with your account.
If you need to bring documents—such as a birth certificate, proof of citizenship, or tax records—the office staff can tell you exactly what you need before you come in. Call ahead rather than making a trip with incomplete paperwork.
Using my Social Security online instead
Many people can complete Social Security tasks without visiting the office. If you create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov, you can view your earnings record, check your benefit estimate, change your address, report a change in your work status, and request a replacement Social Security card (which will be mailed to you).
Creating an account requires a Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity—usually through a credit report or by answering security questions. If you cannot verify online, you can create an account by visiting the Redding office or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Applying by phone or mail
You can apply for benefits by phone without visiting an office. Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A representative will ask questions about your work history, family situation, and medical condition (if you are applying for disability). The call usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
You can also apply by mail. Download the application form from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it to the Redding office. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person or phone applications—usually several weeks—so apply early if you need benefits soon.
What to bring if you visit in person
Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security card if you have it. If you are applying for benefits, bring documents that prove your age, citizenship or legal residency, and work history. For disability claims, bring medical records from your doctors.
If you do not have all required documents, call the office first to ask what you can bring instead. Social Security sometimes accepts alternative documents or allows you to submit them later. Do not make a trip without checking—the office staff can tell you whether you have what you need.
Getting help if you have language barriers or disabilities
The national Social Security phone line (1-800-772-1213) has interpreters for languages other than English. Tell the representative your language when you call, and they will connect you with an interpreter at no cost to you.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use TTY 1-800-325-0778. If you need an in-person interpreter at the Redding office, call ahead to arrange one. Social Security can also provide materials in large print or Braille if you request them in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to visit the Redding office?
Appointments are not required, but calling 1-866-331-1488 to schedule one can reduce your wait time. You can also walk in during office hours, though you may wait longer during busy times, especially early in the month.
Can I apply for Social Security benefits online?
You can start an application online through my Social Security for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. However, Social Security may ask you to complete the application by phone or in person, especially for disability claims that require medical information.
How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card in Redding?
If you request a replacement card online through my Social Security, it will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you apply in person or by mail, the timeline is similar. Expedited service is not available.
What if I cannot reach the Redding office by phone?
Call the national Social Security number at 1-800-772-1213. They can answer most questions, process applications, and handle account changes. You can also create a my Social Security account online to manage many tasks without calling or visiting.
Does Social Security offer services in languages other than English?
Yes. The national phone line (1-800-772-1213) has interpreters for many languages at no cost. If you visit the Redding office in person, call ahead to request an interpreter so staff can arrange one for your appointment.