The Social Security Administration said the operational status of its Washington, D.C. office, card center, or hearing office has changed, and is directing the public to check the current status online.
In a notice issued by the agency, the SSA said people "may not need to visit an office," pointing to a range of services that can be handled online.
The agency highlighted popular online services, including reviewing your latest Social Security statement and earnings history, estimating retirement benefits, and checking the status of an application or appeal.
People can also apply online for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits, or appeal a medical decision, according to the SSA.
Account management tools allow users to change their address, set up or change direct deposit, print proof of benefits, and print their 1099 form.
The SSA also pointed to its FAQs and online options for requesting a replacement Medicare card or a replacement Social Security card.
The agency encouraged the public to "Go Digital" and create a personal my Social Security account, saying millions have already done so to discover their benefits.
The notice did not specify the reason for the change in operational status or say when normal service might resume.