Social Security Offices Closing for 48 Hours: What You Need to Know

URGENT UPDATE: The Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to close its offices for a full 48 hours, beginning Thursday, November 23, through Friday, November 24, in observance of Thanksgiving. With just hours until the blackout, Americans must prepare for the interruption of essential services.

The closures mean that individuals will not be able to visit SSA offices for critical services such as applying for a new Social Security card, making changes to their benefits, or seeking assistance with Medicare resources. This is particularly significant as many rely on these services for financial and health-related support.

For those needing assistance during this period, the SSA urges users to leverage their online services. “You can manage your benefits online by creating a personal my Social Security account,” stated the SSA. This account allows users to apply for retirement, Medicare, and disability benefits directly from their devices, making it a vital tool for those impacted by the closures.

To create a my Social Security account, users must select between two options: ID.me and Login.gov. Both options meet federal security standards but differ in their identification verification methods. The SSA emphasizes that there is “no wrong choice” between the two.

Creating an account requires a personal email, a form of ID, a Social Security number, and a U.S. phone number. Users must also be able to take and upload photos of their ID and utilize multi-factor authentication. Notably, individuals living outside the U.S. or without a Social Security number will need to select ID.me to verify their identity.

As the holiday season approaches, the SSA has also announced another closure in December for Christmas. This means that those who may need assistance with their benefits must act quickly, especially since the next opportunity to visit an SSA office in person will not be available until after these holidays.

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT: As the SSA’s services go offline, users are encouraged to set up their online accounts immediately to avoid disruption. The agency’s website provides detailed instructions on how to navigate the online system and manage benefits efficiently.

With the Thanksgiving closure imminent, the urgency to prepare is clear. Accessing services online is crucial to ensure that all Americans can secure the benefits they rely on without delays. Don’t wait—set up your my Social Security account now to stay ahead during this critical time.