Social Security Phone Number
Updated October 2026 · 2026 figures from the Social Security Administration and IRS
The Social Security phone number is 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Agents answer Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time; automated services work 24 hours a day (SSA 800-number service). Calls are often quickest after Tuesday. This site is independent and can't help with your Social Security account.
Which number to call
| For… | Call |
|---|---|
| Benefits, claims, cards, payments, appointments, SSI | Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) |
| Your local office (direct line) | Find it with the SSA office locator at ssa.gov using your ZIP code |
| Reporting fraud or Social Security scams | SSA Office of the Inspector General: oig.ssa.gov (online report) |
| Medicare claims and coverage | 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) — see Medicare phone numbers |
| Railroad retirement benefits | Railroad Retirement Board: 1-877-772-5772 |
| Tax questions about the SSA-1099 | IRS: 1-800-829-1040 |
What you can do by phone — even without an agent
The automated line works 24/7 and can (SSA 800-number service):
- Send a benefit verification letter (proof of income) by mail.
- Mail a replacement SSA-1099 for taxes, or forms such as the SS-5.
- Request a replacement Medicare card.
- Check the status of a claim and find your local office address.
- Give recorded information on payment dates, direct deposit and the cost-of-living adjustment.
With an agent you can apply for benefits, change your address or direct deposit, report a death, book a Social Security appointment and ask about payments.
Social Security phone number tips: get through faster
- Call Wednesday to Friday and avoid the first week of the month, when payments go out.
- Accept a callback if offered: you keep your place without waiting on hold. SSA reported an average speed of answer of about half a minute in August 2026, counting callbacks (SSA performance data).
- Have your Social Security number ready, plus any letter you're calling about.
- Use the online account for routine tasks: letters, address changes, tax forms and replacement cards don't need a call.
- Calling for someone else? They need to be with you to give permission, or you must be their representative payee or authorized representative.
How to spot a fake Social Security call
Scammers fake caller ID to show "SSA" or the real Social Security phone number. Real Social Security employees will never:
- say your number has been suspended or threaten arrest or legal action;
- demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or cash by mail;
- ask for your full Social Security number or bank details on a call you didn't expect;
- offer to raise your benefits for a fee.
Hang up, then call 1-800-772-1213 yourself, and report the call to the SSA Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov.
Frequently asked questions
What is the phone number for Social Security?
1-800-772-1213, with TTY at 1-800-325-0778. Agents are available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time; automated services run 24 hours a day.
How do I talk to a real person at Social Security?
Call 1-800-772-1213 during business hours and follow the prompts for a representative. Accepting a callback avoids waiting on hold.
What is the best time to call Social Security?
Later in the week (after Tuesday) and later in the month. Mondays and the first days of the month are the busiest.
Can I call my local Social Security office directly?
Yes. Find your local office's phone number with the office locator on ssa.gov by entering your ZIP code.
Is Social Security open on Saturday?
No. Phone agents and offices are open Monday to Friday. The automated phone line and online services are available on weekends.