What the Social Security app does and what it does not
The Social Security mobile app, called my Social Security, lets you view your earnings record, check your benefit payment status, and change your address or phone number from your phone. You can see when your next payment is scheduled and download a benefit verification letter. The app does not let you file for benefits, change your benefit amount, or resolve disputes — those still require a phone call, a visit to an office, or a form sent by mail.
The app is free and works on both iPhone and Android. You need a my Social Security account to use it, which requires creating a username and password or signing in with a third-party account like Google or Apple ID. If you do not have a my Social Security account yet, you can create one on the Social Security website before downloading the app.
The app is most useful if you want to check your payment status without waiting on hold, verify your earnings before you file, or pull a benefit letter quickly. It is not a substitute for calling Social Security when you need to make a change to your account or report a problem.
Key Takeaways
- The my Social Security app shows your payment schedule, earnings record, and benefit verification letters, but cannot process new claims or resolve disputes.
- You must create a my Social Security account on the website first, then download the app and sign in with the same credentials.
- The app works on iPhone and Android and is free to download and use.
- If you lose access to your account or forget your password, you can reset it through the app or on the Social Security website.
- The app does not replace calling Social Security for changes to your account, reporting fraud, or filing a new claim.
How to create a my Social Security account
Before you can use the app, you need a my Social Security account. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select "Create an account." You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a phone number. Social Security will send a verification code to your email and phone to confirm you are the account holder.
You can create your account using your own information, or you can sign in with Google, Apple ID, or Login.gov if you already have one of those accounts. Using a third-party account is faster because you skip the verification step. Once your account is created, write down your username and password in a safe place — you will use these to sign into the app.
If you have a my Social Security account already, you do not need to create a new one. Simply download the app and sign in with your existing username and password.
Downloading and signing into the app
Search for "my Social Security" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download the official app published by the Social Security Administration. When you open the app for the first time, tap "Sign In" and enter the username and password you created on the website, or sign in with your Google, Apple, or Login.gov account.
The app will ask you to set up a PIN or biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition) for faster access on future visits. This is optional but recommended if you use the app regularly. Once you are signed in, you will see your dashboard with your next payment date, payment amount, and links to your earnings record and benefit letters.
What information you can view and download
The app shows your payment history, including the date and amount of each payment you have received. You can see your next scheduled payment and any payments that are pending. Tap "Earnings Record" to view your work history and the wages Social Security has on file for each year — this is important to check before you file, because errors can lower your benefit amount.
You can download a benefit verification letter, which proves your benefit amount and payment status. This letter is useful if you need to show proof of income to a landlord, lender, or government program. The letter is available as a PDF that you can save, print, or email. You can also view your address and phone number on file and request a change through the app.
Changing your address or phone number through the app
Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select "Profile" or "Settings." Look for "Address" or "Contact Information." You can update your mailing address and phone number directly in the app. Social Security will send a confirmation to your email address within a few days.
If you need to change other information — such as your name, direct deposit account, or marital status — you cannot do that through the app. You will need to call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, visit a local office, or mail a form. The app will tell you which form to use and where to send it.
What to do if you cannot sign in or forget your password
If you forget your password, tap "Forgot username or password?" on the app login screen. Social Security will send a reset link to your email address. Click the link and create a new password. Make sure you use a password that is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
If you cannot receive the reset email, check your spam folder. If the email never arrives, go to ssa.gov/myaccount on a computer and use the password reset option there. If you still cannot access your account, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for help resetting your account. Have your Social Security number and a form of ID ready.
When you need to call or visit instead of using the app
The app is read-only for most tasks — it shows you information but does not let you make changes. If you need to file for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, you must call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office. If you want to change your direct deposit account, report a lost or stolen card, or dispute an error in your earnings record, you also need to call or visit in person.
If you suspect fraud on your account or someone has used your Social Security number without permission, call Social Security immediately at 1-800-772-1213. Do not report fraud through the app. If your account has been hacked or you cannot sign in, call the same number and ask for account security help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the my Social Security app safe to use?
Yes. The app uses encryption and requires you to sign in with a password or biometric login. Social Security does not store your password in plain text and uses the same security as the website. However, make sure you download the app only from the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and never share your password with anyone.
Can I file for benefits using the app?
No. The app only shows information about your account. To file for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, you must call 1-800-772-1213, visit a local office, or go to ssa.gov and use the online filing tool on the website.
What if I see an error in my earnings record on the app?
Write down the year and the amount that is wrong. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and explain the error. You may need to provide pay stubs or tax returns as proof. Social Security can correct errors, but it takes time — start the process as soon as you notice the mistake, especially if you are close to filing.
Can I use the app if I do not have a smartphone?
No, the app only works on iPhone and Android phones. However, you can view the same information on a computer by signing into my Social Security at ssa.gov/myaccount. The website version has all the same features as the app.
What should I do if I lose my phone or someone else gets access to it?
Sign out of the app immediately by going to your phone's settings and removing the app, or by signing out through the app menu. Then change your my Social Security password on a computer at ssa.gov/myaccount. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to report the lost phone and ask them to flag your account for security.