Social Security: My Account Login
Complete guide to accessing your my Social Security account online. Learn how to login, create a new account, verify your identity, and securely manage your Social Security benefits, statements, and personal information 24/7.
Official SSA.gov Login Only
Always access your my Social Security account through the official SSA.gov website. Never enter your login credentials on unofficial websites or click links in unsolicited emails claiming to be from Social Security. The SSA will never ask for your password via email or phone.
What is My Social Security Account?
Your my Social Security account is a secure online portal provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that gives you 24/7 access to your personal Social Security information and services. Whether you're currently receiving benefits, planning for retirement, or just want to check your earnings record, this free online account puts you in control of your Social Security information.
The my Social Security platform allows you to view your Social Security Statement, get personalized retirement benefit estimates, apply for benefits, check the status of applications, request replacement documents, update your personal information, and much more - all from the comfort of your home without needing to visit an office or wait on hold.
To access your account, you'll use either Login.gov or ID.me as your credential service provider. These are secure authentication services that verify your identity and protect your account with multi-factor authentication, ensuring that only you can access your sensitive Social Security information.
How to Login to Your Account
Follow these simple steps to access your my Social Security account
Visit SSA.gov
Go to the official Social Security Administration website
Click Sign In
Select 'Sign In' or 'my Social Security' at the top of the page
Choose Credential Provider
Select Login.gov or ID.me to authenticate
Enter Credentials
Provide your email and password for your chosen provider
Complete 2FA
Enter the verification code sent to your phone or email
Access Your Account
View and manage your Social Security information
First Time Logging In?
If you don't have a my Social Security account yet, you'll need to create one first. Click "Create an Account" on the SSA.gov login page and follow the registration process, which includes identity verification and setting up multi-factor authentication.
Learn How to Create AccountWhat You Can Do With Your Account
Manage all aspects of your Social Security information online
View Social Security Statement
Access your complete earnings record and benefit estimates
Download SSA-1099
Get your tax form for Social Security benefits received
Update Direct Deposit
Change your bank account information for benefit payments
Change Address
Update your mailing address and contact information
Check Benefit Status
View your application and appeal status online
Apply for Benefits
Start applications for retirement, disability, or Medicare
Additional Account Features
Creating Your Account
Requirements and steps to set up your my Social Security account
What You'll Need
Valid Email Address
You'll need an active email address to create and verify your account
Social Security Number
Your valid SSN to link your account to your Social Security record
Government-Issued Photo ID
Driver's license, state ID, or passport for identity verification
Phone Number
Mobile or landline number to receive verification codes for 2FA
U.S. Mailing Address
Valid U.S. address that matches Social Security records
Account Requirements
Your Account Security
Multiple layers of protection keep your information safe
Identity Verification
Multi-step verification through Login.gov or ID.me
Multi-Factor Authentication
Additional security layer with phone or email verification
Encrypted Connection
All data transmitted using secure encryption protocols
Activity Monitoring
Continuous monitoring for suspicious account activity
Security Best Practices
- Never share your login credentials with anyone
- Use a strong, unique password for your credential provider
- Only access your account from trusted devices and networks
- Enable all available security features and notifications
- Log out completely when finished using your account
- Be cautious of phishing emails claiming to be from SSA
Login.gov vs ID.me
Choose the credential service provider that works best for you
Login.gov
A government-run credential service provider used across multiple federal agencies.
ID.me
A private company contracted by the government to provide identity verification services.
Which Should You Choose?
Both Login.gov and ID.me are secure and approved by the Social Security Administration. You only need to choose one. If you already have an account with either service from using other government websites, you can use the same credentials. Otherwise, choose whichever verification process you're more comfortable with. Both are free for accessing government services.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
Common problems and how to solve them
Can't Remember Password
Use the "Forgot Password" link on your credential provider's login page (Login.gov or ID.me). You'll receive a password reset link via email. Make sure to check your spam folder if you don't see the email within a few minutes.
Account Locked
If you've entered incorrect credentials multiple times, your account may be temporarily locked for security. Wait 24 hours and try again, or contact your credential provider (Login.gov or ID.me) for assistance in unlocking your account sooner.
Not Receiving Verification Codes
Check that your phone number is correct in your credential provider account settings. Make sure you have cell service or WiFi connection. Try requesting a new code or use an alternative verification method if available, such as an authentication app or backup codes.
Browser or Technical Issues
Clear your browser cache and cookies, try a different browser, disable browser extensions that might interfere, or ensure JavaScript is enabled. The my Social Security website works best with updated versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.
Identity Verification Failed
Ensure all information matches exactly what Social Security has on file. Double-check your name spelling, Social Security number, date of birth, and address. If you've recently moved or changed your name, you may need to update your information with SSA first by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a local office.
Need More Help?
If you're still having trouble accessing your account, contact Social Security for assistance:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about my Social Security account login
How do I login to my Social Security account?
To login to your my Social Security account, visit SSA.gov and click on 'Sign In' or 'my Social Security' at the top of the page. You'll need to use either Login.gov or ID.me credentials to access your account. If you don't have an account yet, you'll need to create one first by clicking 'Create an Account' and completing the identity verification process.
What can I do with my Social Security account?
With your my Social Security account, you can: view your Social Security Statement and earnings record, get benefit estimates, apply for retirement, disability, or Medicare benefits, check application or appeal status, request a replacement Social Security card (in most states), get a benefit verification letter, change your address and phone number, start or change direct deposit, get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S tax form, and manage your personal information securely online 24/7.
How do I create a my Social Security account?
To create a my Social Security account: 1) Go to SSA.gov and click 'Create an Account', 2) Choose either Login.gov or ID.me as your credential service provider, 3) Provide your email address and create a password, 4) Verify your identity by providing personal information and uploading a photo ID, 5) Set up multi-factor authentication (usually via text message or authentication app), 6) Complete the registration process. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid email address, Social Security number, and U.S. mailing address.
What is Login.gov and ID.me for Social Security?
Login.gov and ID.me are secure credential service providers that the Social Security Administration uses to verify your identity and protect your account. Instead of creating a separate username and password for SSA, you use one of these services to sign in. Both offer strong security features including multi-factor authentication. You only need to choose one - either Login.gov (a government service) or ID.me (a private company contracted by the government). Once set up, you use the same credentials each time you access your my Social Security account.
Why can't I access my Social Security account?
Common reasons you can't access your account include: entering incorrect login credentials, account locked due to multiple failed login attempts, identity verification issues, browser compatibility problems, cookies or cache issues, temporary SSA.gov website maintenance, or your account may have been suspended for security reasons. Try resetting your password through Login.gov or ID.me, clearing your browser cache, using a different browser, or waiting and trying again later. If problems persist, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
Is my Social Security account safe and secure?
Yes, my Social Security accounts are highly secure. The SSA uses multiple layers of security including: identity verification through Login.gov or ID.me, multi-factor authentication requiring a code sent to your phone or email, encryption of all data transmitted between your device and SSA servers, automatic logout after periods of inactivity, and continuous monitoring for suspicious activity. To keep your account secure, never share your login credentials, use a strong unique password, enable all available security features, and only access your account from trusted devices and networks.
Can I access my Social Security account on my phone?
Yes, you can access your my Social Security account from any device with internet access, including smartphones and tablets. Simply visit SSA.gov using your mobile browser and sign in with your Login.gov or ID.me credentials. The website is mobile-responsive and will adjust to your screen size. While there isn't a dedicated SSA mobile app, the mobile website provides full access to all account features including viewing statements, downloading forms, and managing your information.
How do I reset my Social Security account password?
To reset your password, you need to go through the credential service you use (Login.gov or ID.me), not through SSA.gov directly. For Login.gov: go to Login.gov and click 'Forgot your password?', enter your email address, and follow the reset instructions sent to your email. For ID.me: go to ID.me and click 'Forgot Password?', enter your email or phone number, and follow the verification and reset process. After resetting your password with your credential service, you can use the new password to access your my Social Security account.
Do I need a my Social Security account to apply for benefits?
No, you don't need a my Social Security account to apply for benefits, but it can make the process easier. You can apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits online without creating an account by using the SSA's online application forms. However, having a my Social Security account allows you to save your application progress, check your application status, upload required documents, and manage your benefits after approval. You can also apply by phone (1-800-772-1213) or in person at your local Social Security office.
What documents do I need to create a my Social Security account?
To create a my Social Security account, you'll need: a valid email address, your Social Security number, a U.S. mailing address, and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport) for identity verification. You'll also need access to a phone number where you can receive verification codes for multi-factor authentication. The identity verification process may ask you questions based on your credit history or public records to confirm your identity. Make sure all your information matches what Social Security has on file.
Ready to Access Your Account?
Login to your my Social Security account now to view your benefits, download forms, and manage your information securely online.
Need Assistance?
Contact Social Security for help with your account or any questions