Some providers are booked up. Instead of a time, their card says **Request availability**. Here's how to ask for a slot.

## Steps

1. On **Home**, click **New Appointment** and choose a specialty.
2. On **Step 2 of 4**, find the provider whose card says **Request availability**.
3. Click it and send your request.
4. You'll get a message in **Messages**: *"Your availability request for [provider] has been sent."* Keep an eye on your **texts and email**.
5. When a time opens up, we let you know: *"A new appointment slot has opened up for you…"*. Click **View New Appointment Slot Available** and finish booking (checkout works as usual).

## Tips

- **Book soon after you get the notice.** Slots can fill up, and the link in a text can expire. If the link doesn't work, open **Messages** in your account or start a [new booking](https://chatwoot-web-production-8008.up.railway.app/hc/goldcare/articles/how-to-book-appointment).
- **Need care sooner?** Look for another provider in the same specialty who shows **Available Today**, **Available Tomorrow** or a **Next availability** date.
- **Not sure who else to see?** Book the free [Matchmaker](https://chatwoot-web-production-8008.up.railway.app/hc/goldcare/articles/matchmaker).

## Still stuck?

Send us a message in **Messages** (click your name, top right, then **Messages**) or use live chat, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. ET. You can also email **memberservices@goldcare.com**.