The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that 26 field offices will close by the end of 2025, affecting in-person services across multiple states. This decision is part of a federal cost-saving effort to shift services online, but it has raised concerns among lawmakers, senior advocates, and disability rights groups.
If your local SSA office is closing, this guide will help you understand:
- Which locations are affected
- How services are changing
- What alternatives are available
- What Congress is doing about it
Key Details: SSA Office Closures in 2025
| Detail | Summary |
|---|---|
| Total Closures | 47 offices closing by 2026, 26 in 2025 |
| States Affected | AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, ND, MT, NV |
| Services Affected | In-person identity verification, appeals, new benefit applications |
| Alternatives | Online tools at SSA.gov, National 800 Number |
| Top Concerns | Accessibility for seniors, disabled individuals, and rural communities |
| Congressional Action | Lawmakers pushing for hearings and funding alternatives |
| SSA Official Resource | ssa.gov/emergency |
While digital access is expanding, the loss of in-person service could disproportionately affect seniors, disabled individuals, and rural residents.
If your local office is on the list, be sure to set up an online SSA account, explore phone options, and plan alternative travel.
Why Are Social Security Offices Closing?
The SSA states that budget constraints and a push toward digital self-service tools are the main reasons for closing these offices. However, this comes at a time when the agency has tightened identity verification rules, requiring some beneficiaries to appear in person for fraud prevention.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) identified 47 offices for closure or consolidation by 2026, with 26 shutting down in 2025 alone.
Critics argue that these closures will limit access to crucial services, especially for those without internet access or reliable transportation.
Confirmed SSA Office Closures by State (2025)
Here is the official list of SSA offices closing in 2025:
Alabama
- Gadsden – 634 Broad St. (Closing Sept. 30, 2025)
Arkansas
- Forrest City – 965 Holiday Drive (April 25, 2025)
- Texarkana – 4083 Jefferson Ave. (May 25, 2025)
Florida
- Melbourne – 4740 Dairy Road (May 16, 2025)
Georgia
- Columbus – 1338 Broadway (Sept. 30, 2025)
Mississippi
- Meridian – 4717 26th St. (June 1, 2025)
- Greenwood – 604 Yalobusha St. (June 1, 2025)
- Grenada – 2383 Sunset Drive (May 1, 2025)
North Carolina
- Roanoke Rapids – 730 Roanoke Ave. (Aug. 1, 2025)
- Franklin – 2123 Lakeside Drive (June 23, 2025)
- Greenville – 2805 Charles Blvd. (June 24, 2025)
- Elizabeth City – 1865 W. City Drive (June 24, 2025)
These closures eliminate crucial face-to-face services in affected areas, making it harder for certain populations to access their Social Security benefits.
What Services Are Affected?
If your local SSA office is closing, here’s what will change:
Services No Longer Available In-Person:
- New benefit applications (retirement, disability, survivors)
- Appeals and hearings
- Replacement Social Security cards
- Identity verification for fraud prevention
Still Accessible:
- Online Services – ssa.gov/myaccount
- Phone Support – 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
- Mail or Fax – Certain updates and requests can still be submitted by mail
Who Will Be Most Impacted?
These closures are expected to disproportionately affect:
- Seniors (65+) who rely on in-person assistance
- People with disabilities needing accommodations
- Low-income households without reliable internet access
- Rural residents who may need to travel 50+ miles to the next closest SSA office
A 2024 Pew Research study found that 25% of Americans over 65 do not use the internet regularly, making SSA’s shift to online services a challenge for many retirees.
What Officials and Advocates Are Saying
SSA spokesperson Mark Hinkle defended the move:
“We are investing in improving our digital tools to provide faster, more secure services. However, we understand the importance of in-person support for certain Americans and are working to provide travel support and transition help where possible.”
But senior and disability advocacy groups are pushing back. According to AP News, several groups have warned that:
- Many seniors do not use online services.
- Identity verification rules conflict with office closures.
- Rural and low-income Americans will lose access to critical services.
What About SSA Employees?
SSA workers are also affected. While some may be offered transfers or remote work, layoffs are expected.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has called for congressional hearings, stating:
“SSA is being asked to do more with less, while staff morale and public service quality decline.”
How to Prepare If Your SSA Office Is Closing
If your local office is closing, take these steps now:
Step 1: Check Your Office Status
- Visit ssa.gov/emergency for closure details.
Step 2: Set Up a MySSA Account
- Register at ssa.gov/myaccount to manage benefits online.
Step 3: Locate the Nearest SSA Office
- Use the SSA Office Locator Tool to find an alternative location.
Step 4: Call SSA for Assistance
- Dial 1-800-772-1213 for appointment availability.
Step 5: Request Accommodations
- If travel is difficult, ask about telephonic hearings or transportation assistance.
Is Congress Taking Action?
Yes. Lawmakers from both parties have introduced proposals to:
- Pause SSA closures until public reviews are completed.
- Require impact assessments before shutting down offices.
- Fund mobile SSA service vans for rural areas.
While no final decisions have been made, public pressure may influence future SSA policies.
The closure of 26 SSA field offices in 2025 is a major shift in how Americans access Social Security services. While digital tools can improve efficiency, in-person support is still crucial for many retirees, disabled individuals, and low-income residents.
To avoid disruptions, set up your MySSA account, explore phone options, and plan ahead. If you’re concerned about these closures, contact your congressional representatives to voice your opinion.
For the latest updates, visit SSA’s official website.
FAQ:
How do I know if my local SSA office is closing?
You can check the SSA’s official emergency page at ssa.gov/emergency for the most up-to-date list of closures.
How will this impact seniors and disabled individuals?
Many seniors and people with disabilities rely on in-person services, especially if they lack internet access or need assistance completing paperwork. With office closures, these individuals may have to travel farther for SSA services or navigate digital platforms they are unfamiliar with.
Will these closures affect my Social Security payments?
No, Social Security benefits will continue as usual. These closures only impact in-person office services. If you receive payments via direct deposit or a Direct Express debit card, nothing will change.
