Stop Wasting Time: The Best Times to Call SSA Revealed

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a variety of services to help people apply for Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Special Veterans Benefits (SVB). With a countrywide network of 1,230 field offices, 164 hearing offices, and countless support centers, the Social Security Administration guarantees that all Americans can access assistance. Several options for getting the help you need include in-person visits, phone conversations, and online self-service. The SSA assists with in-person visits, phone calls, and internet resources. You can seek in-person support at one of the 1,230 local field offices. If you want to speak with a representative, the SSA’s National 800 Number (1-800-772-1213) is available Monday through Friday from 08:00 to 19:00.

To prevent high wait times, call early in the day (8:00 – 10:00) or late in the afternoon (16:00 – 19:00). Wednesdays through Fridays, particularly later in the month, are also less popular times.

The SSA ensures linguistic access through Spanish-speaking agents and provides interpreters in over 120 languages. Deaf or hard-of-hearing people can contact the agency through Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) at 1-800-772-1213 or the TTY-TDD number at 1-800-325-0778. If your inquiry requires more than a phone consultation, SSA staff can set up interviews at a local field office or over the phone. Walk-ins are also welcome, though wait times may vary. The SSA website (www.ssa.gov) provides comprehensive information and services. You can apply for retirement, spousal, disability, and Medicare benefits online at www.ssa.gov/applyforbenefits. Applicants for SSI who are also applying for Social Security disability payments can submit online if they satisfy specific conditions, such as being between 18 and 65, never married, and being a US citizen.

Users can also set up a “my Social Security” account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount, which allows beneficiaries to read and print benefit verification letters, access Medicare information, and track payments. For people who need to find the nearest Social Security office, the SSA provides an office locator tool at www.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp. Simply input your ZIP code to get office information and operation hours.