How to Schedule a Social Security Number Application Appointment

Where to book your Social Security number appointment

You cannot book a Social Security number appointment online through the Social Security Administration website. Instead, you must call the Social Security Administration's main line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an in-person appointment at your local Social Security office.

The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. When you call, have your documents ready so the representative can confirm what you need to bring to your appointment. Wait times on the phone can be long, especially early in the week and early in the day.

If you cannot reach the Social Security Administration by phone, you can visit your local Social Security office in person and ask to schedule an appointment at the front desk. Find your nearest office by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator.

Key Takeaways

• Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule your Social Security number appointment; online scheduling is not available.
• You will need an original or certified birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID to complete your appointment.
• Appointments typically happen within two to four weeks of when you call, though this varies by location and current demand.
• If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, call the same number to reschedule at least one day in advance.
• Bring all required documents in person; the Social Security Administration will not accept photocopies or faxed documents for initial Social Security number applications.

What documents to bring to your appointment

The Social Security Administration requires an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy will not be accepted. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, you will need an original or certified copy plus an official English translation.

You must also bring proof of citizenship or legal residency. For U.S. citizens, this can be a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. For non-citizens, acceptable documents include a permanent resident card, an employment authorization document, a visa, or an arrival/departure record.

Finally, bring a photo ID issued by a government agency. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. The ID must not be expired.

How long appointments take and what happens during yours

A Social Security number appointment typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. You will fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) at the office or before you arrive. The representative will review your documents, ask you to sign the form, and take your photograph if you are applying for a card with a photo.

The Social Security Administration will mail your Social Security card to the address you provide. Standard delivery takes one to two weeks. If you need the card sooner, ask the representative whether expedited mail is available in your area; this is not offered everywhere.

You will receive a Social Security number immediately after your appointment, even if your card has not arrived yet. The representative will give you a receipt showing your number.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you need to reschedule, call 1-800-772-1213 at least one day before your scheduled appointment time. Have your appointment confirmation number ready if you have one. The representative will book you a new date at the same office or a different one if you prefer.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you will need to call and schedule a new one. There is no penalty for missing an appointment, but you will have to wait for the next available slot.

What to do if you cannot reach the Social Security Administration by phone

If you have tried calling multiple times and cannot get through, visit your local Social Security office in person during business hours. Walk-in appointments are not may provide, and you may wait several hours, but staff can schedule you for a future appointment at the desk.

Some Social Security offices offer a callback service. When you call, you can request a callback instead of waiting on hold. The office will call you back at a time you specify, usually within one to two business days. Ask the representative whether this option is available when you reach the phone line.

Preparing for your appointment day

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all original documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get damaged or lost. Do not bring your documents in a binder with metal fasteners, as the Social Security Administration will ask you to remove them.

Wear clothing that allows your face to be clearly visible for your photograph. Avoid large hats, sunglasses, or head coverings unless you have a religious or medical reason. If you do, let the representative know when you arrive.

If you are applying on behalf of a child or dependent, bring your own photo ID as well as the child's documents. You will need to show proof of your relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers.

Special situations and exceptions

If you are applying for a replacement Social Security card because yours was lost or stolen, you do not need to visit an office in person in many cases. You can order a replacement online through ssa.gov/myaccount if you have a verified account and meet other requirements. Check the website to see whether you are may be able to access for online replacement.

If you are a non-citizen with a work visa or other temporary status, you will need to bring your visa or employment authorization document. The Social Security Administration will note your immigration status on your record, and your card may have restrictions printed on it.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call the TTY number 1-800-325-0778 to schedule your appointment. You can also bring an interpreter to your in-person appointment at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Social Security number after my appointment?

You receive your Social Security number immediately after your appointment. The physical card arrives by mail in one to two weeks under normal circumstances. Some offices offer expedited mail, which can reduce this to a few days, but this service is not available everywhere.

Can someone else schedule an appointment for me?

No. You must call to schedule your own appointment, or visit the office in person. The Social Security Administration will not schedule appointments for other people by phone. If you cannot make the call yourself, you can ask a family member or caregiver to call on your behalf and stay on the line with you.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

Contact your state's vital records office to order a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30. You cannot proceed with your Social Security appointment without an original or certified birth certificate. The Social Security Administration website has links to each state's vital records office.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Most Social Security offices require an appointment. Walk-ins are not may provide service and may wait several hours with no may provide of being seen that day. Scheduling an appointment ensures you will be seen at a specific time.

What happens if my documents are from another country?

Bring the original document plus an official English translation. The translation must be certified by a professional translator or the issuing country's embassy or consulate. The Social Security Administration will not accept translations done by friends or family members.