How to Get Help From Social Security by Phone or in Person

Most people seeking help from the Social Security Administration do so online, with 80 percent of customer interactions coming through the My Social Security platform, according to SSA data. But the agency continues to offer service by phone as well as in person at field offices nationwide, and tens of millions of people choose those options.

While the SSA is pursuing a “digital first” strategy designed to make the agency more efficient and responsive, maintaining multiple touchpoints for consumers remains key to its customer service approach, Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano told AARP in a February 2026 interview.

“We’re going to meet clients where they want to be met,” he said. “Let’s meet ’em in the field offices, let’s meet ’em on the phones, let’s meet ’em on the web — however they want.”

Some key tasks, such as applying for survivor benefits, can only be completed in person or on the phone. If you are unable to use your online account to conduct business with the SSA or prefer other options, here’s what to know about getting the assistance you need.

Getting help by phone

You can call the SSA’s national customer service number at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). You can also call your local field office.

The national phone line is staffed by agents from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time on weekdays, except for federal holidays. Outside of those hours, you may be able to find what you’re looking for using the SSA’s automated, 24-hour self-service phone program.

If you prefer to call your local office, the hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. 

Customers calling the 800 number have experienced long wait times in recent years, but the SSA says technology upgrades that allow it to handle more calls through automated self-service and callbacks have significantly reduced the average time it takes to reach a live agent for those who stay on the line, from 28 minutes in 2024 to four minutes in June 2026. (That figure does not include the wait for a callback from Social Security, if you select that option.) Waits are typically shorter if you call in the morning, later in the week or later in the month, the SSA says.