Social Security Office Knoxville FAQ

Yes, appointments are strongly recommended and often required for most services. While some offices may accept walk-ins for certain services, having an appointment ensures you'll be seen promptly. You can schedule an appointment online or call the office directly.

Benefits of scheduling an appointment:

• Guaranteed service time
• Reduced wait times
• Better preparation by staff
• Priority processing

All Social Security services are completely FREE. You should never pay for:

• Applying for Social Security benefits
• Getting a replacement Social Security card
• Changing your name on Social Security records
• Getting benefit verification letters
• Setting up direct deposit

Required documents vary by service, but commonly needed items include:

• Proof of Identity: Driver's license, passport, or state ID
• Proof of Age: Birth certificate or passport
• Proof of Citizenship: Birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers
• Social Security Card: If available
• Marriage/Divorce Documents: For name changes or spousal benefits

For a complete list of required documents for your specific service, visit our documents needed page.

Appointment duration depends on the service:

• Social Security card replacement: 15-20 minutes
• Name change: 20-30 minutes
• Retirement benefits application: 45-60 minutes
• Disability benefits application: 60-90 minutes
• Medicare enrollment: 30-45 minutes

Plan to arrive 15 minutes early and allow extra time for parking. Check our best times to visit guide to minimize wait times.

To minimize wait times, consider these optimal visiting times:

• Best days: Tuesday through Thursday
• Best times: Mid-morning (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
• Avoid: Monday mornings and Friday afternoons
• Avoid: Beginning and end of the month (busy with benefit payments)
• Avoid: Days after holidays

Many Social Security services are available online through your my Social Security account:

• Apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits
• Request a replacement Social Security card
• Get benefit verification letters
• Check application status
• Update direct deposit information
• Get earnings statements
• Estimate future benefits

Creating an online account is simple and provides 24/7 access to services:

• Visit the official SSA website
• Click "Create an Account"
• Verify your identity with personal information
• Choose how to receive a security code
• Create a username and password

Learn more about setting up and using your online account in our detailed guide.

You can request a replacement Social Security card online or in person:

• Online: Through your my Social Security account (fastest option)
• In person: Visit the Knoxville office with required documents
• By mail: Complete Form SS-5 and mail with documents

Important limits: You can get up to 3 replacement cards per year and 10 in your lifetime. For detailed instructions and requirements, see our Social Security card replacement guide.

To change your name on Social Security records, you'll need:

• Completed Form SS-5
• Proof of identity
• Evidence of legal name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.)

Name changes must be done in person at the Social Security office. The process typically takes 20-30 minutes. Visit our name change guide for complete instructions.

Social Security retirement benefits timing:

• Early retirement: Age 62 (reduced benefits)
• Full retirement: Age 66-67 (depending on birth year)
• Delayed retirement: Up to age 70 (increased benefits)

You can apply up to 4 months before you want benefits to start. Learn more about retirement benefits eligibility and application process.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications can be started online or in person. You'll need:

• Complete medical history and treatment information
• Work history for the past 15 years
• Medical records and doctor contact information
• List of medications
• Educational background

The disability determination process can take 3-6 months. Get detailed information about disability benefits application and SSI benefits.

Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65+ or with qualifying disabilities:

• Initial Enrollment: 7-month period around your 65th birthday
• General Enrollment: January 1 - March 31 each year
• Automatic Enrollment: If receiving Social Security benefits at 65

Missing enrollment deadlines can result in penalties. Learn about Medicare enrollment options and deadlines.

Yes, free parking is available at the Social Security office. Here's what to know:

• Free on-site parking lot
• Accessible parking spaces available
• Arrive early for best parking availability
• Street parking may also be available

For detailed parking information and alternative transportation options, check our parking guide and public transportation options.

Here's what to expect when you visit the Knoxville Social Security office:

• Check-in: Provide ID and appointment confirmation
• Waiting area: Comfortable seating with number system
• Interview: Private meeting with Social Security representative
• Document review: Staff will examine and copy required documents
• Next steps: Information about processing times and follow-up

Read our complete guide on what to expect during your visit to feel prepared and confident.