10 Social Security Offices Closing: How to Access Benefits Now

10 Local Social Security Offices Set to Close Following Government Efficiency Review

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is preparing to close or consolidate 10 local Social Security offices across the United States, a move resulting from a comprehensive audit by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While these Social Security office closures might sound alarming, the SSA has multiple alternative service options to ensure Americans can still access their Social Security benefits without interruption.

Which Social Security Offices Are Affected?

The closures span multiple states, including locations in Arkansas, California, Michigan, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Some notable details include:

• Offices in Okemos, Michigan and Nacogdoches, Texas are not currently listed on the SSA website
• The Las Vegas, Nevada Social Security office will move to a federal space
• White Plains, New York will reassign judges and staff to other local hearing offices

Alternative Ways to Access Social Security Benefits and Services

Worried about how you’ll manage your Social Security benefits without a local office? Don’t panic! The SSA offers several convenient alternatives:

1. Online Social Security Services:
   • Use a my Social Security account for tasks like address changes, card replacements, and tax information retrieval
   • Secure and flexible online platform available 24/7 for managing retirement benefits
   • Apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits online
2. Social Security Phone Support:
   • Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time
   • TTY number available for deaf or hard of hearing individuals: 1-800-325-0778
   • Pro tip: Call in the morning, later in the week, or month for shorter wait times
3. Video Hearings for Social Security Claims:
   • Conduct hearings via video, internet, or Microsoft Teams
   • Can be accessed from any location with a smartphone, tablet, or computer
   • Particularly useful for disability benefit applicants

Understanding the Social Security Office Consolidation Savings

The office consolidations are projected to save taxpayers significant funds. For instance:

• Carlsbad, California: $582,245
• Okemos, Michigan: $544,830
• Columbus, Ohio: $405,295

What These Social Security Changes Mean for You

While these changes might seem disruptive, the SSA is committed to maintaining Social Security service quality. The shift towards digital and remote services reflects broader trends in government efficiency and accessibility.

Remember, your Social Security benefits remain unchanged. These office closures are simply an administrative adjustment designed to streamline operations and reduce unnecessary expenses while ensuring continued access to retirement and disability benefits.

Need help navigating these Social Security changes? The SSA’s online and phone resources are more robust than ever, ensuring you can still get the support you need for your Social Security benefits, when you need it.

For more information on Social Security updates, you can visit Kiplinger’s Social Security section or check out our article on 5 New Changes in Social Security.