Social Security has closed some field offices temporarily in multiple states

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced temporary closures of field offices across several states. These closures affect in-person services at specific locations, but they do not stop your benefits or pause your case. The closures are typically announced on the SSA website and through local notices, and they vary by state and office.

If your local office is closed, you can still conduct most Social Security business by phone, mail, or online through my Social Security (the official SSA account portal). The SSA maintains a list of which offices are closed and for how long on its website at ssa.gov. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm whether your specific office is affected and to handle your matter through that channel instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Temporary office closures do not stop your benefits or pause processing of your case — they only affect in-person visits at that location.
  • You can handle most Social Security matters by phone at 1-800-772-1213, by mail, or through my Social Security online without visiting an office.
  • The SSA posts a current list of closed offices on ssa.gov, organized by state and office name, so you can check whether your location is affected.
  • If you need an in-person appointment after your office reopens, you can schedule one online through my Social Security or by calling the national number.

How to learn about your local office is closed

Visit ssa.gov and look for the office locator tool. Enter your zip code or city name, and the tool will show you the nearest Social Security office and its current status. If the office shows as temporarily closed, the notice will typically include the expected reopening date.

You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and ask whether the office serving your area is closed. The representative can tell you the closure dates and direct you to the fastest way to handle your specific need — whether that is by phone, mail, or waiting for the office to reopen.

What you can do by phone instead of visiting an office

Most Social Security matters can be handled by calling 1-800-772-1213. This includes reporting a change of address, requesting a replacement Social Security card, asking about your benefit amount, reporting work income, and answering questions about your case. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778. If you speak a language other than English, interpreters are available. Have your Social Security number ready when you call, and be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.

Using my Social Security to handle matters online

You can create or log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Once logged in, you can view your earnings record, check your benefit amount, change your address, request a replacement card, and report a change in your work status. You can also use the account to schedule an in-person appointment for after your office reopens.

Creating an account requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address. The SSA will send you a verification code to confirm your identity. Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime to check on your case or make updates without waiting for an office to reopen.

Mailing documents to Social Security

If you need to submit documents — such as proof of income, a birth certificate, or a marriage certificate — you can mail them to your local Social Security office. The office address is listed on ssa.gov when you search for your office location. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and a brief explanation of what you are sending and why.

Mail takes longer than phone or online methods, typically one to two weeks for the office to receive and process your documents. If your matter is time-sensitive, calling 1-800-772-1213 is usually faster. Ask the representative whether you can fax or email documents instead, as some offices accept these methods for certain types of paperwork.

Scheduling an appointment after your office reopens

Once your local office reopens, you can schedule an in-person appointment through my Social Security or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Scheduling ahead is faster than walking in, and it reduces wait times. You can book an appointment up to several weeks in advance, depending on the office's availability.

When you schedule, you will be asked what you need help with — for example, applying for benefits, replacing your card, or reporting a change. This helps the office prepare and ensures the right staff member is available when you arrive. Bring all required documents with you on the day of your appointment.

What happens to your benefits during an office closure

Your benefits continue to be paid on schedule during office closures. If you receive Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, your payment will arrive as usual. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your payment will also arrive on time. Office closures do not pause or delay benefit payments.

If you have a case pending — such as an application for benefits or an appeal — the closure may slow down processing because staff are not in the office. However, your case does not expire or get dismissed because the office is closed. When the office reopens, processing resumes. If you are concerned about how a closure might affect your specific case, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my benefits stop if my local office is closed?

No. Your benefits continue on schedule during office closures. The closure only affects in-person services at that location. If you receive retirement, disability, survivor, or SSI benefits, your payment will arrive as usual.

Can I still apply for benefits if my office is closed?

Yes. You can apply online through ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by mail. You do not need to visit an office to start an application. Once your office reopens, you can schedule an in-person appointment if the SSA needs to see original documents.

How long do these closures usually last?

Temporary closures vary in length. Some last a few days, others a few weeks. The SSA posts the expected reopening date on ssa.gov when a closure is announced. If no date is listed, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask when your office is expected to reopen.

What if I need to replace my Social Security card during a closure?

You can request a replacement card online through my Social Security or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The card will be mailed to you. You do not need to visit an office. If you need the card urgently, ask the representative about expedited options.

Can I still appeal a denied benefits decision if my office is closed?

Yes. You can file an appeal by mail or online, and you do not need to visit an office. The deadline to appeal is 60 days from the date on your denial letter. If you are close to the deadline, call 1-800-772-1213 to file your appeal over the phone.