Several Social Security Administration (SSA) offices across the United States (US) are facing closures and service disruptions, affecting in-person services, according to the agency’s website, though the exact causes remain unclear.

A handful of locations listed on the SSA’s Office Closings and Emergencies webpage are either completely closed to the public or operating by appointment only.

The agency said the disruptions are due to reasons such as construction work, or the inability to allow people to wait outside office premises, among other factors.

According to the SSA website, the affected locations span multiple states and territories, including West Virginia, Texas, Pennsylvania, Northern Mariana Islands, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan and Montana.

It remains unclear what is causing the individual closures and disruptions across these offices.

The agency is advising recipients to use its website for assistance where possible.

Those who are unable to access online services are encouraged to call the national 800 number or contact their local Social Security office, where employees may be able to help over the phone.

For individuals who require in-person assistance, the SSA says appointments must be scheduled in advance before visiting any local office.

To confirm whether a specific office is affected, users can enter their ZIP code in the office locator available on the Social Security Administration’s website. (USA TODAY)