The Social Security Administration announced June 29, 2020 that it would open field offices again, but only for what it considers “dire need situations,” where phone services and online services can’t accommodate a customer. These services are by appointment only and the offices still remain closed to walk-in customers. Below is an update from Social Security’s COVID-19 response page about the policy.
Will SSA provide in-person services during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Date: June 29, 2020
If you have a critical situation we cannot help you with by phone or online, we may be able to schedule an in-office appointment for you. We remain unable to provide service to walk-in visitors due to the pandemic.
These decisions protect the population we serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and our employees during the pandemic.
How can I find out if my Social Security office is open?
Date: June 29, 2020
None of our Social Security offices can accommodate walk-in visitors until further notice. In-person service is by appointment only and for limited, dire need situations. This decision protects the population we serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and our employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, we are still able to provide critical services. If you have a critical situation that we cannot help you with by phone or online, we may be able to schedule an in-office appointment for you.
You can speak with a representative by calling your local Social Security office or our National 800 Number. Local office phone numbers are available online at our Social Security Office Locator. Please visit our Office Closings and Emergencies page for the latest information about office closings.
Social Security is not defining what a “critical” situation is or what reaches the level of “dire need,” so they may not be willing to schedule these types of appointments for everyone who requests them.
