What you'll find on socialsecurity.gov
Socialsecurity.gov is the official website run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It holds information about Social Security benefits, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), plus tools to manage your account and look up program rules.
The site is not a place to file a claim or receive money — it is a reference tool and account management portal. You can create a my Social Security account to view your earnings record, check benefit estimates, and change your address or direct deposit details. You can also read about different benefit types, find your local Social Security office, and download forms.
The website is free and does not require you to pay anyone to use it. Social Security staff do not ask for payment to help you, and any website or person claiming to charge a fee to access socialsecurity.gov or file a claim is running a scam.
Key Takeaways
- Socialsecurity.gov is the official Social Security Administration website where you can view your earnings record and check benefit estimates without paying anyone.
- You can create a my Social Security account to manage your information, but you cannot file a new claim or receive benefits through the website alone.
- To file a claim for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, you must contact your local Social Security office, call 1-800-772-1213, or use the online claim form linked from the website.
- The website includes a benefit calculator, office locator, and downloadable forms, all available at no cost.
- Anyone charging a fee to help you use socialsecurity.gov or file a claim is not affiliated with Social Security and may be committing fraud.
Creating and using a my Social Security account
A my Social Security account lets you log in to view your Social Security earnings record, see an estimate of your future benefits, and update your personal information. You create the account directly on socialsecurity.gov by clicking "Create an account" and entering your email, password, and Social Security number.
Once logged in, you can see your complete earnings history, which Social Security uses to calculate your benefit amount. You can also change your mailing address, update your phone number, change your direct deposit information, and request a replacement Social Security card (in some states). The account is secure and uses multi-factor authentication to protect your information.
Creating an account does not file a claim or start any benefit process. It is only a way to view information and make account changes. If you need to file for benefits, you must take a separate step through your local office or by phone.
How to file a claim through socialsecurity.gov
Socialsecurity.gov does not have a single "file here" button. Instead, the website links to the online claim form, which you can reach by searching "file for benefits" on the site or calling 1-800-772-1213. The online form walks you through questions about your situation and collects the information Social Security needs.
You can also file in person at your local Social Security office or by phone. The website includes an office locator tool where you enter your zip code and see the nearest office, hours, and phone number. Many offices now require you to make an appointment before visiting, and you can schedule one through the website or by phone.
Filing by phone or online usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Social Security will tell you what documents to have ready — typically your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and tax returns or W-2 forms if you are still working. Processing a claim usually takes two to four weeks, though disability claims can take much longer.
Finding information about specific benefit types
Socialsecurity.gov has separate sections for retirement benefits, disability benefits (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), survivor benefits, and Medicare. Each section explains who can receive that benefit, how much you might get, and what happens if you work while receiving benefits.
The site includes a benefit calculator that estimates your retirement benefit based on your earnings record and the age you plan to start. This calculator is more accurate than a rough estimate because it pulls your actual earnings history from your my Social Security account. You can run different scenarios — for example, what you would receive if you started at 62 versus 67 — to help you decide when to file.
The disability section explains the medical and work requirements for SSDI and SSI, what counts as work activity, and how your benefits change if you return to work. The survivor benefits section describes who is covered if a worker dies — typically a spouse, children, and sometimes parents — and how to report a death to Social Security.
Downloading forms and publications
Socialsecurity.gov hosts downloadable forms and publications in PDF format. Common forms include the application for retirement benefits (SSA-1), the application for disability benefits (SSA-16), the request for earnings and benefit estimate statement (SSA-7004), and the application for a replacement Social Security card (SS-5, though this is now handled online in most states).
Publications cover topics like how work affects your benefits, how to report a death, what to do if you disagree with a decision, and how to appeal a denial. These publications are free and do not require you to create an account to read them. You can print them or save them to your computer.
If you need a form mailed to you, you can request it by phone at 1-800-772-1213. Social Security will send it within one to two weeks.
Reporting changes and managing your account
Once you are receiving benefits, you must report certain changes to Social Security. These include a change of address, a change in your direct deposit information, a change in your work status, a marriage or divorce, and a death in your family. You can report most of these changes through your my Social Security account, by phone, or in person at your local office.
If you are working and receiving retirement benefits before your full retirement age, you must report your earnings. Social Security reduces your benefit by $1 for every $2 you earn above a yearly limit (the limit changes each year). Reporting your earnings through your account or by phone helps Social Security adjust your payments correctly.
If you receive a notice from Social Security that you disagree with — for example, a notice that your benefit has been reduced or that you owe an overpayment — you can request an appeal. The notice will explain how to appeal and the deadline for doing so. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask questions about the notice.
Recognizing scams and getting help
Scammers often impersonate Social Security and call, email, or text people claiming they need to verify information, that benefits will be cut off, or that they owe money. Real Social Security staff do not call you unless you have already contacted them or they have sent you a letter asking them to call. Social Security will never threaten to arrest you, suspend your benefits, or revoke your Social Security number.
If you receive a suspicious call, email, or text claiming to be from Social Security, hang up or do not reply. You can report it to the Office of Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-269-0271. Do not give your Social Security number, bank account, or password to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
If you need help using socialsecurity.gov or have questions about your benefits, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf and hard of hearing callers). Staff can answer questions, help you file a claim, or direct you to your local office. You do not need to pay anyone to get this help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file for Social Security benefits entirely online?
You can start the process online through the claim form on socialsecurity.gov, but you will likely need to speak with someone by phone or in person to complete it. Social Security may ask for documents or clarification, and some situations require an in-person interview at your local office.
What if I forget my my Social Security password?
Click "Forgot password?" on the login page and follow the steps to reset it. You will need to verify your identity using your email address or phone number. If you cannot reset it that way, call 1-800-772-1213 and a representative can help you regain access.
How long does it take to hear back after I file a claim?
Retirement claims usually take two to four weeks. Disability claims take much longer — often three to six months or more — because Social Security must review medical evidence. You can check the status of your claim through your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Is socialsecurity.gov safe to use?
Yes. The site uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. Only use the official website (socialsecurity.gov) and never enter your information on a site that looks similar but has a slightly different web address. Scammers sometimes create fake websites that look like the real one.
What should I do if I think Social Security made a mistake on my account?
Call 1-800-772-1213 and explain the error. Social Security will investigate and send you a written decision. If you disagree with the decision, you can request an appeal within 60 days of receiving the notice. The notice will explain how to appeal.