The Social Security Administration (SSA) has provided accessible phone numbers to assist with applications and respond to questions. As a US resident, you may need to contact Social Security for any of the following reasons.
To apply for benefits
If you’re 62 and older, and ready to apply for retirement benefits, reaching out to Social Security via a call may be the most convenient way to apply. Also, individuals with disabilities can contact Social Security if they are eligible for a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
To follow up on your benefits application
You can call the SSA directly to check on your benefits application status, or to ask questions and gain clarification on your Social Security benefits.
To update your personal information
If you recently got married or divorced, you can call the SSA to update your records.
To manage your Social Security Number (SSN) or card
You can call to apply for a new social security card via phone, in the case of a misplaced or stolen card. You can also reach out to the SSA if you suspect that your SSN has been compromised.
To report errors and resolve disputes
You can contact the SSA if you believe there is an error in your Social Security benefits amount.
How to Contact Social Security
The SSA has different toll-free contact lines for different purposes. Here is a list of phone numbers to call for different concerns, and their hours of operation:
- To get help with retirement benefits, disability insurance, and supplemental security income (SSI) payments, call 1-800-772-1213. This is the main Social Security number. Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
- If you’re deaf or hard of hearing, call Social Security TTY 1-800-325-0778. Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
- To report Social Security fraud or abuse, call 800-269-0271. Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
- For Medicare enquiries, call 800-633-4227. Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
- To reach the US International Social Security Services, call 410-965-0160. Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST from Monday through Friday.
What are the best times to call?
While you can contact these numbers at any time within the specified hours of operation, you are likely to spend more time on hold during busy periods. You’ll speak to a representative faster if you call:
- Earlier in the day between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM
- Later in the day between 4:00 PM and 7:00PM
- Later in the week from Wednesday to Friday
- Middle to end of the month
Note that none of these Social Security numbers are active during federal holidays.
Other ways to contact Social Security and speak to a person
- Visit the Social Security website.
- Find the closest Social Security office near you.
Important notice
Note the name of any representative you speak with and the date contact when you call Social Security. When you visit the Social Security office, put your name and Social Security number on written correspondence and keep a copy of your records.
