Getting into your Social Security account
You log into your Social Security account through my Social Security, the official portal run by the Social Security Administration. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Sign In or Create an Account." You will need either a Social Security number and password you already set up, or you can create a new account using your email address, phone number, and Social Security number.
The first time you log in, Social Security will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your personal history — things like previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit accounts. This step takes a few minutes and happens only once. After that, you can log in with your username and password whenever you need to check your account.
Key Takeaways
- You access your Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount, not through a bank or third-party website.
- First-time login requires identity verification through questions about your personal history, which takes a few minutes.
- You can create an account using your email, phone number, and Social Security number if you do not already have one.
- Once logged in, you can view your earnings record, check benefit amounts, and change your address or direct deposit information.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Username or Password" link on the login page to reset it through email or text.
Creating a new account if you do not have one
If you have never logged into my Social Security before, click "Create an Account" on the login page. You will need your email address, a phone number where you can receive a text or call, and your Social Security number. Social Security will send you a code to verify your phone number — enter that code to continue.
Next, create a username and password. Your username can be anything you choose; your password must be at least 12 characters and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character like ! or @. After you set these, Social Security will ask you identity verification questions based on your credit history and personal records. Answer as accurately as you can — if you cannot answer a question, you can skip it, but too many skips may delay your account creation.
What to do if you forget your password or username
On the my Social Security login page, click "Forgot Username or Password?" Social Security will ask you to enter your email address or phone number associated with your account. They will then send you a code by text or email — enter that code, and you can reset your password immediately.
If you do not remember which email or phone number you used when you created your account, you can still recover access. Click "I don't have access to my username or phone number" and Social Security will walk you through identity verification questions instead. Once you prove your identity, you can create a new password and regain access to your account.
What you can do once you are logged in
Inside my Social Security, you can view your earnings record — the wages Social Security has on file for you from each year you worked. This record determines how much your retirement, disability, or survivor benefits will be. You can also see an estimate of what your monthly benefit will be at different ages, and check the status of any benefit you are currently receiving.
You can change your address, update your phone number, and set up or change your direct deposit information so benefits go to your bank account instead of a mailed check. You can also request a replacement Social Security card, though the card itself arrives by mail. If you have questions about your account or need to report a change that the website does not allow, you can message Social Security through the account and they will respond within a few business days.
Staying safe when you log in
Always go directly to ssa.gov/myaccount — do not click links in emails or texts claiming to be from Social Security. Scammers often send fake messages that look official and direct you to a fake website designed to steal your password and Social Security number. If you receive an unexpected message from "Social Security," ignore it and log in through the official website instead.
Use a strong, unique password that you do not use for any other account. If your computer or phone has been compromised by malware, change your password from a different device. Social Security will never ask you for your password by phone, email, or text — if someone contacts you claiming to be from Social Security and asking for your password, it is a scam.
If you cannot verify your identity online
Sometimes Social Security's automated identity verification system cannot confirm who you are based on the questions it asks. This can happen if you have limited credit history, have recently moved, or if there is an error in Social Security's records. If this happens, you will see a message saying you cannot create an account online at this time.
When this occurs, you can visit a Social Security office in person with a photo ID and proof of your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or tax return). Bring these documents and a staff member can help you create your account or verify your identity. You can find your nearest office and check hours at ssa.gov/locator, or call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about in-person appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a bank account to create a my Social Security account?
No. You need an email address, phone number, and Social Security number. A bank account is only required if you want to set up direct deposit for your benefits, but you can still view your account and manage other information without one.
What if I do not have a phone number to receive the verification code?
You can use a phone number belonging to someone else in your household, or a friend or family member's number. Social Security only uses it to send a one-time verification code during account creation. After that, you log in with your username and password.
Can someone else log into my Social Security account for me?
No. Only you can log in with your username and password. If you need help managing your account and cannot access it yourself, you can give someone power of attorney through a lawyer, or contact Social Security to discuss representative payee options if you receive benefits.
How long does it take to create an account?
Account creation usually takes 5 to 10 minutes if you can answer the identity verification questions. If Social Security cannot verify your identity online, you will need to visit an office in person, which may take a few days to schedule.
Is my information safe on my Social Security account?
The my Social Security website uses encryption and security measures to protect your data. However, you are responsible for keeping your password private and your device secure. Do not share your login information, and log out when you finish using a shared computer.