After 2 Years, Social Security Offices Reopen This Week

If you’ve been waiting a long time to visit your local Social Security office — as in a couple of years — your patience is about to be rewarded.

After mostly closing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Social Security offices are opening their doors again. Beginning on Thursday, April 7, you can visit your local branch with or without an appointment, the Social Security Administration announced Monday.

However, the SSA reminds you that making an appointment is always the better option. That way, you can avoid waiting in line to see a representative. The agency also reminds you that many items of business can be taken care of online or over the phone.

According to an SSA press release:

“Customers who walk in without appointments may encounter delays and longer waits at our offices. Be aware that our offices tend to be the busiest first thing in the morning, early in the week, and during the early part of the month, so people may want to plan to visit at other times.”

If you are planning an in-person visit, be aware that some safety protocols that are disappearing elsewhere will remain in place at SSA branches. Because seniors are more vulnerable to the ravages of COVID-19, offices are requiring that visitors:

• Wear a mask.
• Practice physical distancing.
• Undertake “self-health checks for COVID-19 symptoms.”

Social Security offices across the nation closed their doors in March 2020 as the pandemic began to spread across the country. Although some Social Security recipients have been able to schedule individual appointments since then, this week will mark the first time the offices have been open to all.

Although Social Security representatives can help answer many questions, they cannot tell you when to begin taking your retirement benefits. If you want assistance crafting your Social Security strategy, stop by Money Talks News’ Solutions Center and get expert Social Security help.