Social Security Offices Near Knoxville TN
Find Oak Ridge, Athens, Morristown, and Cleveland SSA locations with addresses, distances, and contact information
Quick Answer
Other Social Security offices near Knoxville: Oak Ridge (565 Oak Ridge Tpke, 11 miles), Athens (921 Congress Pkwy N, 42 miles), Morristown (3112 Millers Point Dr), Cleveland (529 Inman St W). Each location offers full SSA services including retirement benefits, disability claims, and Social Security card services.
If you're unable to visit the main Knoxville Social Security office, there are several alternative locations within driving distance. These nearby offices provide the same comprehensive services and may offer shorter wait times or more convenient operating hours depending on your schedule.
Nearby Social Security Office Locations
Oak Ridge SSA Office 11 miles
Athens SSA Office 42 miles
Morristown SSA Office 50 miles
Cleveland SSA Office 45 miles
Services Available at All Locations
Each of these Social Security offices provides the complete range of SSA services. Whether you visit Oak Ridge, Athens, Morristown, or Cleveland, you can access the same services available at the main Knoxville office:
- Retirement Benefits: Apply for Social Security retirement benefits or get information about your future benefits
- Disability Services: File disability claims for SSDI or SSI, check application status, or appeal decisions
- Medicare Enrollment: Sign up for Medicare parts A, B, C, or D during enrollment periods
- Social Security Cards: Request replacement cards, report name changes, or update personal information
- SSI Benefits: Apply for Supplemental Security Income or report changes in income or resources
- Appeals and Reviews: Request reconsideration of benefit decisions or schedule disability hearings
Important Service Note
All nearby offices operate on appointment-only basis for most services. While some walk-in services are available, scheduling an advance appointment ensures you'll be seen promptly and can complete your business efficiently. Same-day emergency services are limited to urgent situations only.
Distance and Travel Comparison
| Office Location | Distance from Knoxville | Approximate Drive Time | Parking | Best Access Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oak Ridge | 11 miles | 20-25 minutes | Free lot | Oak Ridge Turnpike |
| Athens | 42 miles | 45-50 minutes | On-site parking | I-75 North to Exit 49 |
| Morristown | 50 miles | 55-65 minutes | Free parking | I-40 East to US-25E |
| Cleveland | 45 miles | 50-60 minutes | Street parking | I-75 South to Exit 20 |
Choosing the Right Office for Your Visit
When deciding which office to visit, consider these factors beyond just distance. The Oak Ridge location is clearly the closest option, making it ideal for routine services like Social Security card replacement or quick status checks. However, if you need specialized services or have complex cases requiring longer appointments, the Athens or Morristown offices might offer more availability.
What to Bring to Any Office
Regardless of which location you choose, you'll need to bring the appropriate documents and identification. The requirements are identical across all Social Security offices:
- Photo Identification: Current driver's license, state ID, or passport
- Social Security Card: Original card or certified copy (if available)
- Birth Certificate: Certified copy from issuing vital records office
- Citizenship Documents: Birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers
- Service-Specific Documents: Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, military records, or medical documentation as needed
Best Times to Visit
Based on typical patterns, Tuesday through Thursday mornings tend to be less crowded at all locations. The Oak Ridge office, being closest to Knoxville, typically has higher traffic. Consider visiting the Athens or Morristown offices if you need immediate service and the main Knoxville office has long wait times. Check our best times to visit guide for detailed timing recommendations.
Alternative: Online Services
Before making the trip to any physical office, consider whether you can complete your business online. Many Social Security services are now available through the my Social Security account portal. You can:
- Check benefit payment status and history
- Request benefit verification letters
- Change direct deposit information
- Update contact information
- Appeal certain decisions online
Online Services Portal
Access many Social Security services online without visiting any office:
Go to my Social SecurityOfficial SSA online portal
Contact Information
All Social Security offices use the same national phone number: 1-800-772-1213. This automated system can help you with basic information and can connect you to local offices when necessary. For specific questions about office locations, current hours, or service availability, the national number will provide the most up-to-date information.
If you need assistance with public transportation options to any of these offices, contact the local transit authorities in each city. The Morristown office has the best public transit access, while Oak Ridge and Cleveland offices are most easily reached by personal vehicle.
Need help preparing for your office visit?
Next: What to Expect at Your Visit