I've been there a number of times, and it was a hassle most every time. I only go because I am the Rep Payee for Thing1 (my older son) and SSA won't allow online acccounts for individuals with a Rep Payee.
The first time I went, the line was out the door. As I waiting in the line, you could see the guard "who keeps order in the court" made no bones about letting you know he is armed. I made a mistake of stepping over a line that you are supposed to stand behind and he acted like I was trying to rob a bank. He also wouldn't let me even ask a question until I was called to the first window - only to have to wait again, once I was in the queue. The clerks that I talked to were condescending or downright rude. Thing1's SSI/SSDI issues are never just cut & dry - so I always need to verify or confirm issues. I always get someone who isn't sure of the answers and we have to get another person involved. Ugh. I was there for over 3 hours without an appointment.
The 2nd time I went Mr. Armed Security Guard was just as serious about his job as the first time. He wouldn't even let an elderly lady come in and sit on a bench while her daughter waited in line for her. The 3rd time I went things were MUCH more improved. The guard was not as much of an a**hole, and the lines weren't as long, and while they still seem to take their time, the people did move out faster than the first couple of years I went. Also, the people I got to speak with were much, much nicer to work with.