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Social Security Administration to Resume In-Person Services at Local Offices

exterior corner of a Social Security Administration building with a blue sky in the background

The Social Security Administration is pleased to announce that local Social Security offices restored in-person services, including for people without an appointment, in April. This includes the 23 offices across Washington state.

In King County there are offices in downtown Seattle, North Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, and Burien. To avoid waiting in line, we strongly encourage people who can to use our online services, call us, and schedule appointments in advance rather than walking in without an appointment. Phone appointments can save you a trip to a busy office. We thank the public for your patience as we work to increase service.

Social Security Administration logoCustomers 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. Given that many of the people we serve have health vulnerabilities, and consistent with our union agreements, we are continuing to require certain safety measures including masking, physical distancing, and self-health checks for COVID-19 symptoms. We will provide masks to the public and employees if they need them.

Online and telephone services most convenient

Online services and telephone remain the most convenient ways to contact the Social Security Administration. Most Social Security services are available to the public online and with a my Social Security account, or by telephone. And most Social Security services do not require the public to take time to visit an office.

You can create a personalized my Social Security account on the SSA.gov website. Many Social Security services are also available by dialing (toll-free) 1‑800‑772‑1213 (for people who use TTY: 1‑800‑325‑0778).

As we upgrade our phone system, some people may experience a busy signal or be unintentionally disconnected from their call. We sincerely regret this disruption and recommend people call when our nationwide 1-800 number may be less busy—before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. local time. Like our offices, our waits are generally shorter later in the week and later in the month.

To learn more, visit our How to Get Help from Social Security page and our Online Services page.


Contributor Kirk Larson is the Social Security Administration’s public affairs representative for Washington state.

This article originally appeared in the May 2022 issue of AgeWise King County