You can change your direct deposit bank by contacting Social Security directly
Social Security lets you change the bank account that receives your monthly payment at any time. You do not need permission from your current bank or the new bank — you only need to tell Social Security where you want the money to go. The change usually takes effect within one or two months, though Social Security may send one more payment to your old account while the switch processes.
You have three ways to make the change: online through your my Social Security account, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. Online is fastest if you already have an account set up. By phone takes about 15 minutes. In person works if you prefer to handle it face-to-face or do not have internet access.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your direct deposit bank anytime by contacting Social Security — no waiting period or reason required.
- The fastest method is logging into your my Social Security account online and updating your bank details yourself.
- If you do not have an online account, call Social Security's toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to make the change by phone.
- The change typically takes one to two months to process, and Social Security may send one final payment to your old account during the transition.
- You will need your new bank's routing number and your account number to complete the change.
Changing your bank online through my Social Security
If you have a my Social Security account, you can update your bank information yourself without calling or visiting an office. Log in to your account at ssa.gov, go to the "Manage Your Benefits" section, and look for the option to change your direct deposit information. You will enter your new bank's routing number (a nine-digit code) and your account number, then confirm the change.
To find your new bank's routing number, check a blank check from that bank — the routing number is the first set of numbers on the bottom left. You can also call the bank directly or search the American Bankers Association routing number database online. Your account number appears on your checks as well, or you can ask the bank for it.
After you submit the change online, Social Security will send you a confirmation. The new bank information usually takes effect within one billing cycle, though it can take up to two months in some cases. During that time, you may receive one more payment at your old account before the switch completes.
Changing your bank by phone
Call Social Security's toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing). Have your Social Security number, your new bank's routing number, and your new account number ready before you call. The representative will update your information over the phone and give you a confirmation number.
Social Security's phone lines are typically less busy early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays. If you reach a busy signal, you can request a callback instead of waiting on hold. The representative will call you back within 24 hours during business hours.
Changing your bank in person at a Social Security office
You can walk into your local Social Security office with your Social Security card, a photo ID, and your new bank's routing number and account number. A representative will update your direct deposit information on the spot. This method works well if you do not have internet access or prefer to handle the change face-to-face.
Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for the address. Some offices require you to make an appointment in advance, while others accept walk-ins. Call ahead to confirm what your local office requires.
What happens during the transition period
Social Security does not switch your direct deposit instantly. Once you request the change, it enters their system, and the change typically takes effect within one to two months. During this time, you may receive one final payment at your old bank account while the system processes the switch.
Do not close your old bank account immediately after requesting the change. Keep it open for at least two months so that final payment does not bounce. Once you have received your first payment at the new bank and confirmed it arrived, you can close the old account if you wish.
If your new bank rejects the deposit
Occasionally a bank will reject a Social Security direct deposit if the account number is wrong or the account has been closed. If this happens, Social Security will try to send the payment again the following month. If it fails a second time, Social Security will mail you a check instead.
If your deposit is rejected, contact your bank immediately to confirm the account number and routing number are correct. Then call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to update the information again. This prevents your payments from being mailed, which is slower and less secure than direct deposit.
Changing to a different type of account
You can change to any type of bank account — checking, savings, or money market. You can also switch to a credit union account; credit unions use routing numbers just like banks. The process is the same regardless of account type: you provide the routing number and account number, and Social Security handles the rest.
Some people switch to savings accounts to reduce the temptation to spend their payment immediately, or to a credit union because the fees are lower. Others move to a joint account with a family member who helps manage their finances. Social Security does not restrict which type of account you use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the change to go into effect?
The change usually takes one to two months. Social Security may send one more payment to your old account during the transition. Keep your old account open for at least two months after requesting the change to ensure that final payment does not bounce.
What if I enter the wrong routing number or account number?
If the information is incorrect, the bank will reject the deposit and Social Security will mail you a check instead. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 as soon as you realize the mistake, and they will update your information. Your next payment will go to the correct account.
Can I change my bank more than once?
Yes. You can change your direct deposit bank as many times as you need to. Each change takes one to two months to process, so avoid making multiple changes in quick succession unless necessary.
What if I do not have a bank account?
Social Security requires direct deposit for most beneficiaries, but if you cannot open a bank account, you can request to receive your payment by check instead. Call 1-800-772-1213 to discuss your situation with a representative.
Do I need to tell my old bank that I am switching?
No. You only need to tell Social Security. Your old bank will stop receiving deposits once Social Security processes the change. You can close the old account after your first payment arrives at the new bank.