Here's The Best Way To Contact TSA's Customer Service

If all goes well, your interaction with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be nothing more than the brief communication required as you move through the security line. However, there are other times when a question or problem arises and you need to contact TSA's customer service. Maybe your bag was damaged during an inspection, or you suspect a TSA officer stole your things. Or perhaps an employee behaved inappropriately during a screening.

If you need to contact TSA outside the usual airport security line, the best and easiest way is through social media. Representatives are available during regular business hours (between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern Time) to answer questions and handle simple issues. You can find TSA on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @AskTSA, on Facebook Messenger (look for Ask TSA on Facebook), and under the name AskTSA on Apple Business Chat. Alternatively, you can text "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872) to begin a messaging conversation, though beware that this option may not be free, depending on your phone plan.

If your question or concern requires an in-depth explanation, or if you'd rather speak to someone in real time, you can also call TSA. The agency's customer service can be reached at (866) 289-9673. Representatives are available between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern Time on weekdays and between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern Time on weekends and holidays.

Some issues involving TSA have their own procedures in place, and messaging or calling a customer service agent may not be the most efficient solution. For example, if you have a question about what rules are enforced for packing liquids and aerosols in checked luggage, you're better off searching TSA's website or using the My TSA mobile app. If you lost a personal belonging while going through security, TSA generally recommends contacting the airport's lost and found department. On the other hand, if you suspect a security officer stole or damaged an item, you must file a claim online. The same goes for inappropriate conduct, poor customer service, and other complaints.

Note that TSA also has specific programs to provide certain services. TSA Cares is a little-known program that offers screening assistance to passengers with disabilities, injuries, medical conditions, and cognitive differences. Fliers who may require support from TSA Cares can call (855) 787-2227. Problems with TSA PreCheck are also handled separately. Locate the contact form on the TSA website for PreCheck customers and answer the questions to receive assistance. Additionally, you can look up the expiration date of your PreCheck membership online to ensure it's still active.