Social Security Office Appointments: When You Need One and How to Prepare

Start online — you may not need a visit

The Social Security Administration (SSA) says its website, ssa.gov, is the best way to get help, and that you can use online services to apply for benefits, check the status of a claim or appeal, request a replacement Social Security card in many areas, and get a benefit verification letter.

A personal my Social Security account lets you manage many of these tasks without phone calls or office visits. SSA uses Login.gov (or another sign-in partner) to verify your identity; SSA says you will need an email address, a government-issued photo ID and a phone number or a device with a camera, depending on the sign-in option.

When an office visit may be needed

Some situations still require an in-person visit, for example when SSA needs to see original documents and an online option isn’t available for your situation. SSA will tell you if that is the case. For a replacement card, see replacing a Social Security card.

How to arrange a visit

1. Find your local office with SSA’s field office locator (external site) — search by address, city or ZIP code.
2. Contact SSA through the official channels listed on its contact page (external site). SSA says it can often help by phone and save you a trip; if a visit is needed, ask to schedule an appointment.
3. Write down the date, time, office address and the name of the service.

What to bring

SSA will tell you which documents you need for your specific request. Generally:

• Original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency — SSA commonly asks for originals rather than photocopies.
• Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, state ID or passport.
• Any letter or notice SSA sent you.
• Forms you were asked to complete, and your Social Security number.

If you are not sure, ask when you schedule.

Protect yourself from scams

SSA warns that scammers impersonate the agency by phone, text, email, letters and social media. According to SSA, scammers pretend there is a problem or a prize, pressure you to act immediately, and tell you to pay in a specific way — such as gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or mailed cash. They may also threaten to suspend your Social Security number. If you get an unexpected message like this, stop and contact SSA through ssa.gov. SSA’s scam page (external site) explains how to report it.

Running late or need to change the time?

Contact SSA using the official number or office details as early as possible. See how to reschedule.