TL;DR Everything before and after felt like an agonizing eternity, but the visit itself was rather delightful. Appointments only. No walk-ins accepted. I haven't had the pleasure of visiting any SSA building before today, but it reminded me of mini DMV, with the lobby of chairs, a kiosk, and monitor screens displaying next in line lottery numbers. Now serving #### at window #. Making the appointment was easy, however a 120+ minute phone hold time needs improvement. I called in to request duplicate paperwork and left the phone on speaker to run errands while waiting in the hold queue. Two...hours...later...a friendly voice greeted me and was very helpful and thorough with answering questions. While setting an SSA appointment the rep discovered an error and determined the root cause. Since their system had my phone and email info, I received reminders and information including an advance check-in weblink for when we arrived. I followed the link instructions and promptly received my ticket number before we got out of the car. There were a couple of people inside the lobby among the rows of seats towards the right when entering. The information TV screens and kiosk were to the left. Office SSA reps worked behind glass and each space provided two chairs with partitions separating customers for semi-privacy. We spent less than 5 minutes in the lobby after checking in online from the parking lot. Our SSA rep was friendly and helpful, answering questions and providing reasonable expectations of next steps after concluding the appointment in roughly 30 minutes to resolve why we needed to stop by in person. If you have an online account. I'd highly recommend taking that route, but if you must go the SSA office, be ready to endure the steps for making an appointment and be prepared with all necessary documents. read more

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We sometimes you just have to walk through the door. I went over to the social security office to check if I could get some help with my ratings. I sat down answering all the questions and I learned a lot about these hard working people. I was not sure if I could even apply for the benefit. But I did .( Hence that you just have to walk through the door) Comes from. In life if we don't try for the things we need. Then you will never understand what you may Need. These people are hard working people. And all you have to do is . Give them respect say thank you and smile. So give this place a try. I did and I am so happy that I did read more

I don't have a complaint about this office directly but I have a complaint against Mr.Blanco he is from the office of disability determination his number is 619-688-4298 I've left messages in regards to my claim it's been a month and I have not received any call back or any mail this is not professional at all I'm in need of help and I understand I need to be patient but it's been a month now I think I've been patient enough. Please someone help me or any advice on what I can do? Thank you read more

Went to show documents for an online application I did. Security guard was rude, insisting the online application gave me an option for an appointment, despite me telling him 3 times it did not. He let me in to an almost empty office. I checked in at the kiosk, and was called to window 1 within a few minutes. The rude woman at window 1 told me an appointment was required. I told her the website did not say that, she just repeated herself. I told her "I'm here now and you aren't busy, cant you check my documents?" She repeated that an appointment is required, and said something about it being a county requirement. I said "but this is a federal office." She said its a san diego county federal office, which made no sense. She made me an appointment for next week. I left and went to the El Cajon office, where I was quickly and Professionally helped with verification of my documents. Guess an appointment is not required at every county SSA office some folks just like to be difficult.... read more

Social Security - Sign outside SSA office - Public Services & Government Near Me - La Mesa, California

Pro: Each person is assisted in a semi private room/cubicle Con: Paperwork Long waits later in day You have to know what you need help with and come prepared with what you need/want So I arrived about 15min before open and a line had already formed. So if you're planning on going in to the SSA office be warned you will be waiting. Now if you're like me and hate to wait you need to be there about 30min before open and get in line. I love how they controlled the number of people coming in(covid protocol) so not everyone could rush up. Had a seat once I got the the front, explained what I was there for and given a number. Truthfully waited maybe 15min and then was called up. Another 10 to 15min and I was out of there. Don't be upset at the employees for the time it takes to complete some of these tasks as everything takes time with SSA. Even online I was quoted over 100days for them to review my file. I do recommend getting here early as the line will grow along with your wait and potentially anger. read more

Social Security - Even before opening. Already a line. - Public Services & Government Near Me - La Mesa, California

I'm satisfied with the Service here. And the Convenience of the Visits to Meet with Dr. Via Phone.

I want to give a good review because most times the reviews are pretty harsh. Although they've changed their system to making appointments they still accept walk-ins where you can make an appointment for the future or if it's something very easy you might be able to be taken care of on the spot. From the security guard out front to the staff inside all were very polite and helpful. I met with Chantal who was understanding of the reason why I was there and she was very helpful taking my information and answering all my questions. This is my third time to this office and I've never had a bad experience. You can go there and scan a QR code that will give you information to make an appointment or call the office directly. read more

The people at this office are so extremely rude and unhelpful. Government dollars hard at work I guess. And I work for the government. Here's a news flash: if you have zero compassion and zero desire to help others why don't you get in a different line of work. Clean restaurants after hours where you don't have to be in contact with the general public, become a gardener or wash cars. But definitely don't spew your nasty attitude on people who come to you for help. Are you not in customer service? I applied at the social security office years ago and understand it's a stressful job but it seems some are past their expiration date. Maybe look into retiring. read more

Got the information I needed. This time should go smooth now everything is up and running. Hopefully read more

Social Security - Public Services & Government Near Me - La Mesa, California

The people in this Social Security Office are VERY knowledgeable, helpful and nice. Many people come to the Social Security office frustrated, and sometimes they don't get the answer to their problem that they wanted to hear. But the professionalism and politeness of the people working in this office cuts through all that. I may not be happy with what they tell me, usually about how much money I get, but I'm always satisfied I got the right answer. A special shout out to the morning security guard S. Hatton. He is really polite and respectful while also being firm. That's a tough job, because some people might probably get irrational. But he handles people very well and has a very friendly demeanor. One important thing -- always get to this office at about 830 or so on a weekday morning for the 9 am opening. Bring a lawn chair and wait in a short line. If you do that, you'll get right in and get helped very quickly. read more

the la mesa office is wonderful with wonderful people who care about the people they help and for each other!

With the advent of technology Social Security keeps in step accordingly. Good job. Online services are secure with respect to security of one's on-line account. Much functionality on-line. Many locations. If you want to be the first person to receive service then you need to get their about 30 minutes ahead of time, at least that is my experience at the downtown and Le Mesa locations. Strangely, not every time I go are they packed with people. Individualized service and good record keeping. read more

First time visiting SSA in La Mesa. first contact was the security officer, very nice but very firm, professional and helpful. The representative are knowledge about my issue. thank you read more

Sara was very rude to me and denied me getting my benefits back by telling me that I had to show proof of what I don't own or have anymore. I'm 70 years old and shouldn't have to keep going back for benefits I'm eligible for again. It's no concern of hers what I did in the past. All that concerns her is that I'm over 65 and have no more than 2000 dollars in assets...PERIOD! Nothing more, nothing less. They do this to people...try and intimidate you into thinking that you have to provide sales receipts for everything you used to own. My retirement benefits are 295 per month because I got paid in cash most of my life as a professional musician. These employees seem to forget that benefits are the people's money, NOT theirs to dole out like a parent does an allowance to their kids. Treating elders like this when they totally qualify for the benefits they're entitled to is disgusting and pathetic. read more

~ I called SSA today for a status update for myself. I am Seven weeks post hearing. I am unsure if the call was routed to the LA Mesa SSA office or an SSA phone center? The SSA Agent who answered the phone call was initially courtesy but appeared annoyed when she said she needed support from another SSA Agent. According to the 1st SSA Agent she said the 2nd SSA Agent was on another call and not able to answer my call. I respectfully accept this. 1st SSA Agent allegedly received verbal instructions from the 2nd SSA Agent to communicate to me. Reflecting on this weird phone behavior from SSA Agent I am unsure if it was even a 2nd SSA Agent she was receiving instructions from? The alleged 2nd SSA Agent responded with " I have to just wait for a decision from SSA which could take 18 months or so". I do not know much but I do know some SSA Agents are far removed from understanding , active listening and resolving issues. I do not know the reason (s) why delivery of poor phone etiquette & experiences from SSA Agents are rude , cruel and condescending. My hope is that SSA Agents and / or thier Family members will never have to experience the hardships of financial , mental and physical conditions claimets endured for years awaiting a decision... read more

I've been in twice (both times without an appointment) and I've had great experiences with everyone, security guards, the check in counter and the staff has answered all my questions throughly assisted in making sure all paperwork was handled correctly. I guess it's not a state of the art waiting room but for the amount of time I've spent there it's no problem. Only problem - parking is very limited there. read more

Went in to change my name due to getting married. Was in and out in 45 minutes with no appointment. The security guard was so kind helping me at the kiosk and sarah at the desk was helpful and kind. I tried the El Cajon office weeks ago and the staff were short and rude with a 3 hour wait. read more

I just wanted to send a review of our experience at the Social Security Office in La Mesa. I rated it a 5 stars We were in and out . We came a little after 10:00 and maybe 5-10 people. Waited about 5 minutes and then we were called. No lines and people were very nice Thank You read more

We came in today just to get a social security card. The guard promptly came over to advise us that they have an office that deals with cards only in El Cajon. I was very glad not to sit there for a long time attempting to get a card just to be told they do not do this at this office. Thank you Mr. Security guard! You saved over an hour in my life! read more

Social Security - Front of Social Security Administration - Public Services & Government Near Me - La Mesa, California

Very rude and very unprofessional staff. Not helpful at all and seem very lazy. Communication skills is definitely a zero

The staff here are very rude and unprofessional. I was talking on a phone with Perez he seem very angry. It's very frustrating to deal with kind of behavior. I always kept my calm and professional. This discriminatory behavior needs to end. read more

ZERO STARS. This isn't over. DISGUSTING, DISCRIMINATORY behavior by a government agency!!! I was just hung up on after calling for hours and was told I was never going to get an appointment there. I live around there! I have an emergency type situation and wanted to make an appointment, she was rude, wouldn't give me her name and hung up on me. I will be doing everything in my power to find out who is working there right now. UNACCEPTABLE, INHUMANE, DISPICABLE, immature behavior. You are supposed to HELP PEOPLE??? Disgusted in so many ways. read more

Very disappointed with my appointment not at all what I thought I was going to accomplish as a Widow. I was told they don't discuss anything except information to replace cards. That is fine just thought I would get further along with information, which was discussed at time of making appointment. Be prepared to be talked to like your in the Military with the Rep I had. I had to question over and over in order for him to look at notes then he kinda got it. I asked to talk to Supervisor which came over very nice on trying to help. I asked why did I get all these Certificates from Recorder he said they would need them to go ahead with Applications. He asked if Rep copied them NO he then copied and sent off to pending Application Dept. He said she will call me. Thank You but there should be better communication skills with Rep that has worked many years there, or his he just to comfortable? Look forward to the call. TH read more

My worker Mr. Jacobo has been extremely helpful. He takes the time to explain what and why we are doing a certain document.

Why does the 800 number not let you create an account? I'm 71 and disabled and I need a replacement social security card because the IRS wants to see the card when I file my taxes in the spring. I am skeptical as to how long it will take to get a card. read more

The staff has provided professional information regarding my complicated case. Thank you, lady in window 2 for your time and passion to help the public. read more

Social Security - Public Services & Government Near Me - La Mesa, California

Unfortunately, my set of circumstances is a little more complex than some. Although I live in El Cajon, I decided to go to the La Mesa office to have some questions answered. I've stopped by the Social Security Office in El Cajon a few times and was given different answers each time. Additionally the clerks there didn't seem too empathetic. I decided to try the La Mesa Office thinking that possibly I'd be lucky enough to be assisted by someone who was caring and knowledgeable. My decision paid off. I was assisted by a clerk named Vern. He spent more time than I ever expected trying to find the correct answers to my questions. He continued to work with me even after the office closed. He seemed genuinely empathetic and extremely knowledgeable. I left feeling confident that I had my questions answered accurately. I was also assisted very, very quickly which is not usually expected when visiting a government office. I'd like to sincerely thank Vern for his assistance. read more

I was there on February after spending hours on the phone with SSA. I was told to go in person to have my mom's address changed as she had moved and it must have lost by the post office. It was a complete waste of time. The supervisor said to wait for it by mail and this was in February. The SSA said it takes about 4 to 6 weeks and now it is almost 8 weeks and still no replacement form. This is the reason why I rated it so low. I can't get a change of release form on behalf of my mother who is 94 year old and lives in assisted living and can't function to even walk, as she is physically disabled now. That office refused to give me any form to complete or take with me. How do you get anything done. I will contact my local politician to see if they can help me. read more

Prepare to wait a very very long time! No food is allowed as well! Ok scratch that the security officer is eating an ice cream sandwich haha! read more

I went here yesterday to change my name and the guard says they don't handle that at this office its El Cajon, National City and Downtown just FYI if you need to handle social security cards business don't go here the AC was blowing and it was not crowded at 3pm but the parking sucks so go early in case you have to park down the road and walk... read more

Yesterday, I went to the Social Security office in La Mesa, CA. I had an appointment. Checking in can be a bit confusing, but there was a very helpful security guard there who pointed me in the right direction. I checked in, sat down and waited maybe 2 minutes before Dennis, an employee at the office, called my name. He greeted me warmly, helped me with my benefit questions, printed out a copy of my benefits and asked me how else he could assist me. He was professional, courteous and most importantly, he didn't rush me. I was a little nervous being in the office as this was my first visit there. I had nothing to be afraid of, Dennis treated me with kindness and respect. It was a very pleasant experience. Thank you Dennis. Frances C read more

I needed to change my Social Security benefit in August. I made an appointment by phone. There might have been a long wait, but I took the option of leaving my number and was called back within the hour and was able to schedule the visit for the La Mesa office the next week. My appointment started on time, the gentleman who helped me was entirely knowledgeable, professional and very courteous. It was a very positive experience. (There is limited parking on site, but it is possible to park at the shopping center across La Mesa Blvd.) read more

Made an appointment for them to call me which they did, but the phone call got dumped and they didn't call back. I can't call them and I waited a month for this call.GRRRR!!! read more

starting from the officer at the door, to the receptionist at window 6 and finally to the super nice lady at window 2 (jenny) who helped me with my medicare problem, everyone was helpful,courteous, and friendly. Didn't wait long, problem solved. Warning, there is a small parking lot, usually filled. I parked across the street at Von's and worried i would be towed. The receptionist advised not to worry, they don't tow and usually everyone parks there. read more

Parking was a nightmare. The guard the day we went was extremely rude. He treated our group like criminals, insisting that we sit down while we were still being introduced to each other. He sat behind his desk like some potentate not opening the door or offering direction until after people walked in. The social security personnel insisted on receiving paperwork that had never been needed for similar transactions by the rep payee previously. When we did go back to the office area to complete the rep payee paperwork for my brother, the social security personnel did not offer to make copies of the transaction for my file as conservator. I had to get copies from the rep payee instead. My advice is to go to the El Cajon office instead where the guard is nice, parking is ample, and the social security personnel are polite and helpful. read more

This is the second time I've been here. The first time was fine, but there are new questions since the time is closer to apply. Parking is horrible though. The guard didn't bother me, but he yelled out for people to put their phones on mute. I think he should have gotten up from his chair and made the announcement instead of sitting by a wall that partially hides him. I'm not a high school kid and don't appreciate hearing someone be rude to people like that. Then, at first I was grateful that a worker took me in so quickly, but I realized he wanted to rush me through as fast as possible and seemed annoyed at my questions. Sorry guy, but this is my life we are talking about and I should be treated with respect. It isn't an easy decision on when to take social security as there are many factors to sift through. He was an older, heavy-weight, Caucasian man who I'm sure does not need to worry about the performance for his job, but he should still do it with respect to the public or go elsewhere. Very rude. I guess I'm making another trip to the office and this time, I will call them out if they are rude and request to speak to someone else. The guard needs to be replaced too if he is threatening people like he did in another review here. read more

This place could be okay. I don't know. We didn't even make it in the door before we were accosted by the security door sitting at the door. My friend and I each had an iced coffee. Instead of letting us know we could not take the coffee in the building, he said "where are you going with those coffees". We were both surprised and confused. But when we realized what he meant, we stepped outside to finish our coffee. Then after 10 minutes of conversation, we realized that this location does not issue new social security cards. My friend went up to the door to look at the address of the other location, and the security guard thrust a paper at her and said , "here take one of these, it will be easier, so I won't have to pull my weapon out". She was shocked. Maybe he was saying that because she had her phone out, and was looking at the address of the other locations? Do they not allow phones? I don't know. When she asked him what he said again, he again told her he didn't want to have to pull out his weapon on her. Very confusing. And scary. read more