Where to find the official Social Security login page

The official Social Security login page is at ssa.gov/myaccount. This is the only login portal run by Social Security itself. Do not use any other website claiming to be Social Security — scammers create fake login pages that look nearly identical to the real one.

When you arrive at ssa.gov/myaccount, you will see a button labeled "Sign In" or "Create an Account". The page displays the Social Security Administration seal and the URL in your browser should show "ssa.gov" — not a different domain with "social security" in the name.

If you have never logged in before, you will need to create an account first. This takes about 10 minutes and requires a valid email address and a phone number where you can receive a text message.

Key Takeaways

  • The real Social Security login is only at ssa.gov/myaccount; any other website asking for your Social Security number is not official.
  • You need an email address and a phone number that can receive text messages to create your first account.
  • After you log in, you can view your earnings record, check your benefit amount, and change your address or direct deposit information.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page — Social Security will never ask you to reset it by email or phone call.
  • Two-factor authentication (a code texted to your phone) protects your account from unauthorized access.

What you need to create an account

To set up a my Social Security account, gather these items before you start: a valid email address you check regularly, a U.S. phone number where you can receive text messages, and your Social Security number. You will also need to answer security questions based on your credit history — Social Security pulls these from public records to verify you are who you say you are.

The security questions ask things like "Which address did you live at in 2015?" or "Which bank issued your credit card?" If you have no credit history or the questions do not match your records, you may not be able to create an account online. In that case, you will need to visit a Social Security office in person or call 1-800-772-1213 to set up your account by phone.

The account creation process does not cost anything. Social Security does not charge fees to create or maintain a my Social Security account.

How to log in and what you can do once inside

Once your account is created, go to ssa.gov/myaccount and enter your email address and password. Social Security will text a one-time code to your phone — enter this code to complete your login. This two-factor authentication step happens every time you sign in and protects your account even if someone learns your password.

After you log in, you can view your Social Security earnings record (the wages and self-employment income Social Security has on file for you), see your current benefit amount if you are already receiving benefits, and check the age at which you become may be able to access for full retirement benefits. You can also update your mailing address, change your direct deposit information, request a replacement Social Security card, and view your Social Security Statement, which shows your projected benefits at different ages.

You cannot file for benefits through my Social Security — you still need to do that by phone, in person, or through a separate online form. But you can see whether you have already filed and check the status of a pending application.

Protecting your account from scams and unauthorized access

Scammers often impersonate Social Security in phone calls, emails, and text messages. Real Social Security will never call you unsolicited, text you a link to log in, or ask you to confirm your password or Social Security number by email. If someone contacts you claiming to be from Social Security and asking for personal information, hang up or delete the message.

To keep your account safe, 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 on multiple websites. If you suspect someone has accessed your account, change your password immediately and contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.

If your phone number changes, update it in your account settings as soon as possible. If you cannot access your account because your phone is lost or stolen, call Social Security to have them temporarily disable two-factor authentication so you can log in from a different device.

What to do if you cannot log in or forgot your password

If you forgot your password, click "Forgot Password" on the ssa.gov/myaccount login page. Social Security will send a reset link to your email address. Click the link, answer a security question, and create a new password. This process takes a few minutes.

If you forgot your email address or cannot access the email account you used to create your my Social Security account, you will need to call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a Social Security office. A representative can help you regain access or create a new account with a different email address.

If you are locked out of your account after too many failed login attempts, wait 24 hours and try again. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to have a representative unlock your account immediately.

Alternatives if you cannot create an online account

Not everyone can create a my Social Security account online. If the security questions do not match your records, or if you do not have a phone number that can receive text messages, you have other options. You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time, and a representative can look up your information over the phone.

You can also visit a Social Security office in person. Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it. Wait times vary by location and time of day — calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.

If you need an interpreter, Social Security offices can provide one at no cost. Call ahead to let them know which language you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ssa.gov/myaccount the same as Medicare.gov or other government websites?

No. ssa.gov/myaccount is only for Social Security accounts. Medicare has its own login at Medicare.gov. Other benefits like SNAP or Medicaid are run by state agencies, not Social Security. Do not enter your Social Security number on any website except ssa.gov/myaccount.

Can I file for retirement or disability benefits through my Social Security account?

You cannot file through my Social Security, but you can start the filing process on a separate form at ssa.gov/benefits-retirement-form or ssa.gov/applyforbenefits. You can also file by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or in person at your local Social Security office.

What if I do not have a cell phone or cannot receive text messages?

You cannot create a my Social Security account without a phone number for two-factor authentication. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office to handle your business by phone or in person instead.

How do I know if a website is really Social Security?

Check the URL in your browser. It must say "ssa.gov" — not "socialsecurity.gov", "social-security.gov", or any other variation. Look for the lock icon next to the URL, which means the connection is secure. When in doubt, call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm you have the right website.