Where to find your Social Security data

You can view your Social Security earnings record, benefit payment history, and account details through my Social Security, the official online portal run by the Social Security Administration. You create a personal account using your Social Security number, email address, and identity verification. Once logged in, you can see your estimated retirement, disability, and survivor benefits; your complete earnings history; and records of any payments you have received.

If you do not have internet access or prefer to work with someone in person, you can visit a local Social Security office. Call 1-800-772-1213 to find the office nearest you or to request a paper copy of your earnings record by mail. The mailed version typically arrives within two weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • My Social Security is the main way to view your earnings record, benefit estimates, and payment history without visiting an office.
  • You will need to create an account using your Social Security number, email, and identity verification through a third-party service.
  • If you spot errors in your earnings record, you can report them directly through your account or by contacting Social Security with documentation.
  • You can request a paper copy of your earnings record by phone or mail if you do not use the online portal.

Setting up your my Social Security account

Go to ssa.gov and select "Create an account" under my Social Security. You will provide your Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and phone number. Social Security then directs you to a third-party identity verification service — currently ID.me or Login.gov — where you prove who you are by uploading a photo ID and sometimes taking a selfie.

The verification process usually takes a few minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours in some cases. Once verified, you return to my Social Security and your account is active. You can then log in anytime to view your information.

What information you can see in your account

Your my Social Security dashboard shows your estimated monthly benefit amount at different ages — typically at 62, full retirement age, and 70. These estimates are based on your actual earnings record and current law. You can also see your complete year-by-year earnings history going back to 1951, which is what Social Security uses to calculate your benefits.

If you are already receiving benefits, your account displays your monthly payment amount, the date of your last payment, and a record of all payments received. You can also see any taxes withheld and download a benefit verification letter, which some employers or lenders request as proof of income.

Correcting errors in your earnings record

If you notice missing earnings, incorrect amounts, or duplicate entries in your earnings history, report the error as soon as possible — the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to fix. Log into my Social Security and use the "Contact us" option to report the discrepancy, or call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with someone directly.

You will need to provide documentation of the correct earnings, such as W-2 forms, tax returns, or pay stubs. Social Security investigates and corrects the record if your evidence supports the claim. Errors in your earnings record can lower your benefit amount, so checking it every few years is worth the time.

Accessing records for someone else

You can view another person's Social Security information only if you have legal authority — as a parent or guardian of a minor, a court-appointed representative payee, or an attorney with power of attorney. You cannot access someone else's account without their permission and legal documentation.

If you are the representative payee for a beneficiary, you can create a separate account using their information and your authorization documents. Contact your local Social Security office with proof of your authority to set this up.

Getting records by mail or phone

If you do not want to create an online account, you can request your earnings record by phone at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will verify your identity and mail the record to you, which typically takes 10 to 14 business days. You can also visit a Social Security office in person with a photo ID and request a printed copy on the spot.

For a benefit verification letter — which shows your current benefit amount and is often needed for loans or housing — you can print it directly from my Social Security, request it by phone, or pick one up at your local office. There is no charge for any of these requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forgot my my Social Security password?

Select "Forgot your password?" on the login page and follow the prompts to reset it using your email address. You will receive a link to create a new password. If you cannot access your email, call 1-800-772-1213 and a representative can help you regain access to your account.

Can I see my Social Security information on my phone?

Yes. My Social Security works on mobile browsers, and the Social Security Administration offers a mobile app called "my Social Security" available on iOS and Android. The app lets you view your benefit estimates, earnings record, and payment history the same way the website does.

How often should I check my earnings record?

Social Security recommends checking your record at least once every few years to catch errors early. If you spot a mistake, you have a limited window to correct it — generally three years, three months, and 15 days from the end of the year the earnings were reported. Checking before you turn 60 gives you time to fix problems before you claim benefits.

What if my identity verification fails?

If the third-party verification service cannot verify your identity online, you can complete verification in person at a Social Security office. Bring a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. An employee will verify your identity and activate your account on the spot.