As of January 2025, many Social Security offices have moved to an appointment-based system for many customer service needs. Additionally, many needs can also be met by visiting www.ssa.gov or through a MySSA account. These changes were made with the goal of improving customer experience and wait times.
This said, it can be challenging at times to know what can be done using each option. The two tables below provide a summary of services that appointments can and cannot be managed by scheduling an appointment with SSA or starting the process online. Additional information from Social Security can also be found in a video format at this link.
✅ What You Can Complete Online or by Scheduling Online or By Phone
| Service | How to Schedule | Notes |
| Apply for benefits (SSI, SSDI, retirement) | Start application online or schedule an appointment with SSA | Some applications can be fully completed online. Others may require a person to finalize at a local office. |
| Replace a Social Security card | MySSA account or schedule appointment with SSA | Online option available for many users |
| Update contact info or direct deposit | MySSA account | No appointment needed |
| Change your name | Start online through MySSA account or schedule an appointment with SSA | May require in-person follow-up |
| Check application or appeal status | Social Security Website | No appointment needed |
❌ What You Cannot Schedule Online
These services cannot be scheduled online and may require calling SSA or visiting in person:
| Service | Why Not Available Online | How to Proceed |
| Overpayment reconsideration | Requires paperwork and explanation | Must call SSA or visit office |
| Guardian consent for employment services | Requires documentation | Must be handled through provider or mailed |
| Release of medical records for minors | Not permitted via online form | Must visit SSA office or call |
| Emergency walk-in services (e.g., harassment, trafficking) | Not scheduled online | SSA offices must accommodate walk-ins |
| Local field office appointments | No online system | Must call national hotline or local office |
SSA Appointment Scheduling: Online
- Click here for an overview of how to create your MySSA Account on Social Security’s website.
- For services that allow online scheduling, appointments can be scheduled at this link on the Social Security website.
SSA Appointment Scheduling: Phone Numbers
✅ National Hotline
- Phone: 1-800-772-1213
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (local time)
- This number connects you to SSA’s automated system and national representatives.
✅ Local Offices
- You can call your local SSA office directly to schedule an appointment. To locate your location office, use the Social Security Office Locator.
- Some SSA offices will only have the national number available through the SSA website, not local office numbers. At times a local number may be able to be found by doing an online search or leaning on third party resources such as this.
