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Update Your Social Security Direct Deposit

Learn how to securely update your Social Security direct deposit information online, by phone, or in person. Change your bank account details for retirement, disability, SSI, and other SSA benefits quickly and easily.

Update Online NowCall 1-800-772-1213

Why Update Your Direct Deposit?

Keeping your direct deposit information current ensures you receive your Social Security benefits without interruption. Whether you've switched banks, opened a new account, or need to update your banking details for any reason, the Social Security Administration makes it easy to update your information.

Direct deposit is the safest and most convenient way to receive your benefits. It's faster than waiting for a check, more secure, and gives you immediate access to your funds on payment day.

What You'll Need

Gather this information before updating your direct deposit

Bank Routing Number

9-digit ABA routing number (found on checks or bank statements)

Account Number

Your checking or savings account number

Account Type

Specify whether it's a checking or savings account

Identity Verification

Social Security number and personal information for verification

Three Ways to Update

Choose the method that works best for you

Online (Recommended)

Update your direct deposit through your my Social Security account

1

Log in to your my Social Security account at SSA.gov

2

Click on 'Benefits & Payment Details'

3

Select 'Update Direct Deposit'

4

Enter your bank routing number and account number

5

Verify the information and submit

Access My Social Security

By Phone

Call Social Security to update your information over the phone

1

Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)

2

Available Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

3

Have your bank routing and account numbers ready

4

Verify your identity with the representative

5

Provide your new banking information

Call Now

In Person

Visit your local Social Security office with required documents

1

Schedule an appointment (recommended)

2

Bring a voided check or bank letter

3

Bring valid photo ID

4

Complete the direct deposit form

5

Receive confirmation of your update

Find Local Office

Important Things to Know

Keep these tips in mind when updating your direct deposit

Processing Time

Changes take 30-60 days to take effect. Monitor both accounts during transition.

Security

Only update through official SSA channels. Never share login credentials.

Confirmation

You'll receive a confirmation letter in the mail after the update is processed.

Keep Old Account Open

Don't close your old account until you confirm payments are going to the new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about updating Social Security direct deposit

How do I update my Social Security direct deposit online?

To update your direct deposit online, log in to your my Social Security account at SSA.gov. Navigate to 'Benefits & Payment Details' and select 'Update Direct Deposit.' Enter your new bank routing number and account number, verify the information, and submit. Changes typically take effect within 30-60 days.

How long does it take for a direct deposit change to take effect?

Direct deposit changes typically take 30 to 60 days to take effect. The Social Security Administration needs time to process your request and coordinate with your financial institution. You should continue to monitor your old account until you confirm the payment is going to your new account.

What information do I need to update my direct deposit?

You'll need your bank's 9-digit routing number (also called ABA number or routing transit number) and your account number. You can find these on your checks, bank statement, or by contacting your bank. You'll also need to specify whether it's a checking or savings account.

Can I update my Social Security direct deposit by phone?

Yes, you can update your direct deposit by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Have your bank routing number and account number ready when you call.

Is it safe to update my direct deposit information online?

Yes, updating your direct deposit through your my Social Security account is secure. The SSA website uses encryption and secure protocols to protect your personal and financial information. Always ensure you're on the official SSA.gov website and never share your login credentials.

Can I update direct deposit at a Social Security office?

Yes, you can visit your local Social Security office to update your direct deposit information. Bring a voided check or a letter from your bank with your routing and account numbers. You'll also need to bring a valid photo ID. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times.

What if I don't have a my Social Security account?

If you don't have a my Social Security account, you can create one for free at SSA.gov. You'll need to verify your identity with personal information and answer security questions. Once your account is set up, you can manage your direct deposit and access other online services.

Will I receive confirmation when my direct deposit is updated?

Yes, the Social Security Administration will send you a confirmation letter in the mail after your direct deposit information has been updated. You should also monitor both your old and new bank accounts to confirm when the change takes effect.

Can I split my Social Security payment between two accounts?

No, Social Security benefits can only be deposited into one account. However, once the money is in your account, you can set up automatic transfers with your bank to move funds to other accounts if needed.

What should I do if my bank account is closed?

If your bank account is closed, contact Social Security immediately at 1-800-772-1213. You'll need to provide new banking information or request to receive payments by Direct Express debit card. If a payment is returned due to a closed account, SSA will send you a check, but you should update your information as soon as possible.

Protect Yourself from Scams

Only update your direct deposit through official SSA channels: my Social Security account, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office.

The Social Security Administration will never call you asking for your banking information. Be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages requesting personal or financial information.

Always verify you're on the official SSA.gov website before entering any sensitive information. Look for the secure padlock icon in your browser's address bar.

Ready to Update Your Direct Deposit?

Choose the method that's most convenient for you and update your banking information today. The process is quick, secure, and ensures your benefits continue without interruption.

Update OnlineCall 1-800-772-1213

Related Resources

Learn more about managing your Social Security benefits

How-To Guides

Step-by-step instructions for common Social Security tasks

Learn More

My Social Security Account

Manage your benefits, view statements, and update information online

Access Account

FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about Social Security

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