Frequently Asked Questions

You can schedule an appointment through several methods:

• Online through our appointment scheduling page
• By calling us at (775) 623-6500
• In person at our office location

We recommend scheduling an appointment in advance to minimize wait times. For urgent matters, we offer same-day appointments based on availability.

Yes, you can visit without an appointment. However, scheduling in advance is strongly recommended as it allows us to serve you more efficiently and reduce your wait time. Walk-in service is available based on staff availability, and you may experience longer waits during peak hours.

Wait times vary depending on the time of day and volume of visitors. Generally:

• With an appointment: 10-20 minutes average
• Walk-in (peak hours): 30-60 minutes
• Walk-in (off-peak): 10-30 minutes

Visit our best times to visit page for recommendations on when to come in for shorter wait times.

Yes, you can reschedule or cancel your appointment. Contact us at (775) 623-6500 or visit us in person. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice if possible to allow other customers to use that time slot.

The documents you'll need depend on the service you're seeking. Generally, you should bring:

• Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport)
• Social Security card (or knowledge of your SSN)
• Birth certificate
• Proof of citizenship or valid visa

For specific services, additional documents may be required. View our complete document checklist before your visit.

Acceptable proof of citizenship includes:

• U.S. Birth certificate
• U.S. Passport
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
• State ID issued by Nevada

If you don't have any of these documents, we can help guide you through the process of obtaining them. Check our full requirements page for more details.

We prefer to see original documents for verification purposes. Copies may be acceptable for some services, but we recommend bringing originals when possible. Call us at (775) 623-6500 to ask about specific documents for your service needs.

Don't worry! Our staff can assist you in obtaining missing documents or provide guidance on alternative options. Bring whatever documentation you do have, and we'll work with you to resolve the issue. Some services may require you to obtain additional documents before we can process your request.

We provide a wide range of Social Security services including:

• Retirement benefits applications
• Disability and SSI applications
• Social Security card replacements
• Medicare enrollment
• Earnings record inquiries
• Name change requests
• Benefit verification letters

View all available services to learn more.

You can apply for retirement benefits through multiple methods:

• Online through www.ssa.gov
• In person at our office
• By phone at (775) 623-6500

You can apply as early as age 62, though waiting until your full retirement age results in higher monthly benefits. Visit our retirement benefits page for detailed information.

Getting a replacement Social Security card is quick and simple:

• Bring valid ID and proof of citizenship
• Complete the application in our office
• Your new card will be mailed to you within 1-2 weeks

You can also apply online through your my Social Security account in many cases. No appointment is needed for this service.

You can apply for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) or SSI in several ways:

• Online at www.ssa.gov
• Visit us in person at the Reno office
• Call (775) 623-6500

The application process takes time, and medical evidence is required. Learn more about the disability application process.

Yes! We can help with Medicare enrollment at our office. We assist with:

• Initial Medicare enrollment
• Plan changes and updates
• Questions about Medicare coverage

Make an appointment or visit us in person to enroll or make changes to your Medicare coverage.

Our office is conveniently located in Reno. For our exact address, hours, and directions, visit our location page. We also provide information about parking and public transportation options.

For current office hours and holiday schedules, please check our hours page or call us at (775) 623-6500. Hours may vary seasonally and on federal holidays.

Yes, we have parking available for visitors. Visit our parking page for detailed information about accessible parking, visitor parking, and directions to the lot.

The Reno area is served by public transportation. For information about bus routes and schedules that serve our location, check our public transportation page or contact your local transit authority.

If you're running late, call us immediately at (775) 623-6500 to let us know. We'll do our best to accommodate you. Arriving more than 15 minutes late may result in rescheduling your appointment. Check our directions page to help plan your route.

Yes! Many services can be handled online through my Social Security account, including:

• Checking your earnings record
• Applying for retirement benefits
• Requesting benefit verification letters
• Applying for a replacement card (in some cases)
• Managing your account settings

Create your account today to access these convenient services from home.

Creating a my Social Security account is easy and secure:

• Visit www.ssa.gov
• Click "Create an account" or "Sign in"
• Follow the verification process
• Set up your secure password

Once verified, you'll have access to your Social Security information and can perform many tasks online.

Yes, Social Security's online services use advanced security measures to protect your personal information. However, always:

• Use a secure, private internet connection
• Never share your password or account details
• Look for the lock symbol in your browser
• Be cautious of phishing emails claiming to be from Social Security

Social Security will never ask for sensitive information via email or text message.

Yes, you can apply for retirement benefits, disability benefits, and some other services online through www.ssa.gov. The online application process is user-friendly and can be completed from home. You can also complete applications in person at our Reno office or by phone.

The fastest way depends on your needs:

• Quick questions: Call us at (775) 623-6500
• Simple applications: Use my Social Security account online
• Complex matters: Schedule an appointment
• Urgent issues: Visit in person during operating hours

Yes, you can authorize someone to represent you or be present at your appointment. We accept representatives including:

• Family members
• Friends or caregivers
• Attorneys
• Social workers or advocates

Your representative may need to provide authorization documentation. Call us at (775) 623-6500 for specific requirements.

Yes, we provide language assistance services. If you need an interpreter, please:

• Let us know when scheduling your appointment
• Call ahead at (775) 623-6500 to arrange services
• Bring a qualified interpreter if you prefer (we also offer professional services)

We're committed to serving all community members effectively.

Yes, our office is accessible and complies with ADA requirements. We offer:

• Accessible entrance and facilities
• Parking for people with disabilities
• TTY/TDD service for hearing impaired visitors
• Assistance for mobility-impaired visitors

If you need specific accommodations, please call us ahead to ensure we can assist you properly.

We're committed to providing excellent service. If you have a complaint or concern:

• Speak with a supervisor at our office
• Call the Social Security Administration's toll-free line for complaints
• Visit www.ssa.gov to submit feedback

Your feedback helps us improve our services for everyone.

After you apply for a replacement card, it typically takes 1-2 weeks to arrive at your address via mail. Exact timeframes depend on current processing volumes and mail delivery times in your area.

You can apply for retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, your monthly benefit amount increases if you wait until your full retirement age (67-68) or until age 70. Use Social Security's benefit calculator to estimate your benefits at different ages.

Yes, you can work and receive benefits. However, if you're under your full retirement age, your benefits may be reduced if your earnings exceed annual limits. Once you reach full retirement age, there's no limit on how much you can earn. Learn more about work and benefits.

When applying for disability benefits, bring medical records, work history, and identification. Your complete documents checklist has all items needed. Medical evidence is critical for disability applications.