There are multiple rules that determine Social Security benefits. It can also be noted that sometimes, these rules might be confusing and difficult to understand and there are still many people who prefer easier ways to get information. With that being said, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a few ways to access information.
Contact the SSA Online
Standard SSA Website
Amongst the three methods of contact, is the SSA’s website. This is known to be the easiest and most efficient way. It is created to be user-friendly and can be available in English and Spanish. This website has significant information relating to Social Security and some parts can be available in (but not limited to) Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, Italian, Russian, Korean and Polish.
People who use the SSA website can file applications for many different benefits, they can also check the status of current claims, request a replacement Social Security card, file appeals and go through Medicare information.
My Social Security Account
In order to get more personalized information on individual Social Security, beneficiaries can create an online account. Once this is done, users can access their benefit information to know more about how much they would be receiving etc. This online portal offers important information for beneficiaries.
My Social Security operates during specific hours:
- Monday–Friday: 5 a.m. – 1 a.m. ET
- Saturday: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. ET
- Sunday: 8 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. ET
- Federal holidays: Same hours as their corresponding day of the week
Given the round-the-clock availability and depth of information offered, the website (especially with a My Social Security account) is often the smartest first step for most users.
Contact the SSA by Phone
There are some individuals who prefer speaking to someone, especially when dealing with confusing issues, therefore the SSA offers a phone line and the toll free number is 1-800-772-1213.
Assistance Hours
Live representatives are available:
- Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. (local time)
Automated Phone Services
If you prefer not to wait for a representative, the automated telephone system can assist with:
- Requesting benefit verification letters
- Checking claim status
- Ordering a replacement Social Security card
- Locating the nearest field office
- Handling select Medicare-related tasks
Even though it’s convenient, it’s important to note that some questions may require human responses.
Visit an SSA Field Office In Person
If you find that the online and telephone options are not helping you, especially in instances where identity verification is required, it is important to visit the local SSA field office for assistance.
Scheduling and Expectations
- Appointments are required. Use the SSA’s online Office Locator to find your nearest office and book an appointment.
- Staff shortages, the SSA is experiences staff shortages as a result of reducing spending and therefore there are fewer employees to assist beneficiaries. This has caused longer wait times for walk-in beneficiaries.
What Offices Can (and Can’t) Help With
It is important to be mindful of what field offices can help, such as assistance with Social Security cards, updating personal records, and navigating applications that require hands-on help. However, employees are not trained to give advice on how to utilize your benefits. If you are seeking this kind of help, please contact a financial advisor who can assist you with such information.
The Bottom Line
In essence, you can contact the SSA via three ways: through its website, by phone, or in person at a field office. From all three, it has been concluded that making use of the website is the most efficient method of seeking information. Even though phone and in-person is still on the table, it does involve longer wait times.