The official Social Security website is ssa.gov, and you create your account through my Social Security
The Social Security Administration runs one login system for all online account access: my Social Security, found at ssa.gov/myaccount. This is the only official Social Security login portal. You do not log in through a separate benefits site or a third-party service.
When you visit ssa.gov/myaccount for the first time, you will create a username and password. The system will ask you security questions to verify your identity before you can set up your account. Once your account is active, you can return to that same web address to log in anytime.
Social Security does not send unsolicited emails asking you to log in or verify your account. If you receive an email claiming to be from Social Security and asking you to click a link or enter your password, it is a scam. Delete it and do not click any links.
Key Takeaways
- The official Social Security login is my Social Security at ssa.gov/myaccount — there is no other official portal.
- You create your account the first time you visit, using a username, password, and answers to security questions.
- Social Security will never email you asking you to log in or verify your account details.
- Once logged in, you can view your earnings record, check benefit payment status, and request a replacement Social Security card.
- If you cannot remember your password, use the "Forgot username or password?" link on the login page to reset it.
What you can do once you are logged in
After you log in to my Social Security, you have access to several pieces of information about your account. You can view your earnings record — the wages and self-employment income Social Security has on file for you — which is the basis for your benefit amount. You can also see the estimated benefit amounts you would receive at different ages if you claim retirement benefits.
If you are already receiving benefits, you can check the status of your current payments, see how much you received in the past year, and view your payment schedule for the coming months. You can also change your direct deposit information if you need to update your bank account.
Through my Social Security, you can request a replacement Social Security card if yours is lost or damaged. You can also view your Social Security Statement, which shows your work history and estimated benefits. Some states allow you to complete the entire card replacement process online; others will mail you a form to sign and return.
Creating your account for the first time
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select the option to create a new account. Social Security will ask you to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address. You will then create a username (which can be any text you choose) and a strong password.
Next, Social Security will ask you to answer security questions based on information in your file — questions like "What was the name of your first pet?" or "In what city were you born?" These answers are used to verify your identity if you ever need to reset your password. Answer honestly and remember your answers, because you will need them again if you forget your login details.
After you complete these steps, your account is active. You can log out and log back in using your username and password whenever you need to check your information.
If you cannot log in or remember your password
On the my Social Security login page, select "Forgot username or password?" Social Security will ask you to enter your Social Security number and email address. If the email matches what is on file, you will receive a link to reset your password. Follow that link and create a new password.
If you cannot remember the answers to your security questions, or if you do not receive the password reset email, you will need to verify your identity in person. You can visit your local Social Security office with a photo ID and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return). An employee can help you regain access to your account.
Social Security offices are open Monday through Friday. You can find the address and phone number of your local office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213.
Protecting your my Social Security login
Your my Social Security account contains sensitive information about your earnings, benefits, and personal details. Use a password that is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Do not use the same password for your Social Security account that you use for other websites or services.
Never share your username or password with anyone, including family members or Social Security employees. Social Security staff will never ask you for your password. If someone contacts you claiming to be from Social Security and asks for your login details, it is a scam.
Log out of your account when you are finished, especially if you are using a shared computer. If you notice any activity in your account that you did not authorize — such as a change to your direct deposit information or a request for a replacement card that you did not make — contact Social Security immediately at 1-800-772-1213.
What to do if you think your account has been hacked
If you log in and see information that is not correct, or if you notice changes you did not make, your account may have been compromised. Change your password immediately by logging out and using the "Forgot username or password?" link to reset it. Then call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to report the unauthorized access.
Social Security can place a fraud alert on your account and review recent activity to see what was changed. They can also help you correct any information that was altered. If someone used your Social Security number to claim benefits or request a card in your name, Social Security will document this and work with you to resolve it.
You should also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to prevent someone from opening accounts in your name using your Social Security number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my Social Security the same as my benefits portal?
Yes. My Social Security is the single official portal for all Social Security account access. There is no separate benefits site. If you see a different website claiming to be a Social Security login, it is not legitimate.
Can I log in on my phone?
Yes. My Social Security works on phones and tablets as well as computers. You use the same username and password whether you log in on a phone or a desktop.
What if I do not have an email address?
You need an email address to create a my Social Security account. If you do not have one, you can create a free email account through Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, or another provider. Once you have an email address, you can set up your Social Security account.
How long does it take to create an account?
Creating a my Social Security account usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address. The identity verification process is immediate — you answer security questions and your account is activated right away.
Can someone else log in to my account if they know my password?
Yes, which is why it is critical to use a strong, unique password and never share it. If you suspect someone else knows your password, change it immediately using the password reset link on the login page.