Social Security Guides
Plain-language answers to the questions people ask most about Social Security — cards, appointments, and benefits — that apply nationwide. For office addresses and hours, browse by state instead.
Your Social Security Card
Replace a Social Security Card
Lost or damaged your card? See when you can request a replacement online, what documents you need, and how long it takes to arrive.
Read more →Change Your Name on Your Social Security Card
Married, divorced, or had a legal name change? Update your name on file with Social Security and see which document you'll need.
Read more →Getting a Social Security Card for a Newborn
Learn how to get your baby's Social Security number through the hospital, or after the fact.
Read more →Appointments & Contact
How to Schedule a Social Security Appointment
Appointments are now required for most in-person visits. See how to schedule one online or by phone, and when you can still walk in.
Read more →Social Security Office Phone Numbers & Contact Info
Find the national phone number, best times to call, and how to reach your local field office directly.
Read more →Social Security Office Holiday Schedule
Social Security field offices close on all 11 federal holidays. See this year's full schedule so you can plan your visit.
Read more →How to Talk to a Real Person at Social Security
Stuck in the Social Security phone menu? See the fastest way through it, when to call, and what to do if the line won't connect.
Read more →What to Bring to Your Social Security Office Visit
Know before you go: which documents Social Security actually accepts, and why a photocopy or expired ID gets you turned away.
Read more →Best Time to Visit a Social Security Office
Some days at a Social Security office mean a 90-minute wait. See when it's quietest, and the one thing that shortens any wait the most.
Read more →Social Security Office Closures: How to Check If Yours Is Affected
A handful of Social Security field offices are temporarily closed or limited at any given time. See how to check if yours is affected before you make a trip.
Read more →Social Security Scams: How to Spot and Report Them
Scammers impersonate Social Security by phone, email, and mail. Learn the warning signs, how to verify a real contact, and where to report a scam.
Read more →Benefits & Eligibility
SSI vs. SSDI: What's the Difference?
SSI and SSDI are often confused. Compare how each disability program is funded, who qualifies, and what health coverage comes with it.
Read more →Social Security Disability Appeals: Field Office or Hearing Office?
Confused about where a Social Security disability appeal actually happens? See which office handles reconsideration, and why your hearing might be somewhere else.
Read more →Social Security Survivor Benefits
Learn who's eligible for survivor benefits after a family member's death, how much you could receive, and how to report a death to SSA.
Read more →Social Security Spousal Benefits
See how spousal benefits work, who qualifies as a current or divorced spouse, and how the 50% benefit amount is calculated.
Read more →How to Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits
See when to apply for retirement benefits, how to apply online or in person, and what to bring.
Read more →Social Security Full Retirement Age
See your full retirement age by birth year, and how claiming early or delaying changes your monthly benefit.
Read more →Manage Your Benefits
Change Your Social Security Direct Deposit
Update your bank information for Social Security payments online, by phone, or through your bank.
Read more →How to Report a Death to Social Security
Learn how to report a death to Social Security and what happens to benefits already paid.
Read more →How to Get a Social Security Benefit Verification Letter
Need proof of your Social Security benefits for a loan or housing application? See how to get a benefit verification letter instantly online, free.
Read more →