Where to check your SSI balance and payment history
You can see your SSI payment amount, deposit date, and account activity through three main routes: the Social Security website, a phone call to Social Security, or a visit to your local office. The fastest method for most people is the Social Security website, which shows your information instantly without waiting on hold.
To use the website, you need a my Social Security account. This is a free login you create at ssa.gov. Once you log in, you can view your current monthly payment amount, see when deposits hit your bank account, check your payment history going back several years, and download a benefit verification letter that proves you receive SSI.
If you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone, call the Social Security toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. Have your Social Security number ready. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning on weekdays. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person — find the address at ssa.gov/locator.
Key Takeaways
- Create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to see your payment amount, deposit dates, and payment history online anytime.
- Your monthly SSI payment amount appears in your account along with the date it will be deposited to your bank account.
- If your payment does not arrive on the expected date, check your account first to confirm the deposit date, then contact Social Security if it is late.
- You can download a benefit verification letter from your account to show employers, landlords, or other organizations that you receive SSI.
Setting up your my Social Security account
Go to ssa.gov and click "Create an account" under the my Social Security section. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a password. Social Security will ask you security questions based on your credit history to verify your identity — these are questions only you should know the answer to.
Once your account is created, you can log in immediately. The first time you log in, you may see a message that says your information is being verified — this usually takes a few minutes, but can take up to 24 hours. After verification is complete, you will have full access to your payment information.
If you have trouble creating an account or do not remember your password, call 1-800-772-1213. Social Security staff can help you reset your login or create an account over the phone.
What information you will see in your account
Your my Social Security account shows your current monthly SSI payment amount in the "Benefit Summary" section. This is the dollar amount you receive each month. Below that, you will see your payment history — a list of every payment made to you, the date it was deposited, and the amount.
The account also displays your direct deposit information, showing which bank account receives your payments. If you need to change your bank account, you can update it in your account settings, though changes usually take one or two pay periods to take effect.
You can download a benefit verification letter, which is a document Social Security creates showing your current payment amount and that you are receiving SSI. Many landlords, employers, and social service programs ask for this letter as proof of income.
What to do if your payment is late or missing
First, log into your my Social Security account and check the payment history section. Look for the date your payment should have arrived. Social Security deposits SSI on the first business day of each month — if the first falls on a weekend or holiday, the deposit comes the day before.
If your account shows the payment was deposited but it has not appeared in your bank account, contact your bank. Deposits can take one to three business days to show up, depending on your bank's processing time. Your bank can tell you whether the deposit is pending or if there was a problem receiving it.
If your account shows no payment was deposited at all, or if you believe there is an error in your payment amount, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Have your account information ready and explain what you see (or do not see) in your payment history. Social Security can investigate and tell you why the payment was delayed or missing.
Checking your payment if you do not have internet access
Call 1-800-772-1213 and tell the representative you want to check your SSI payment status. Have your Social Security number ready. The representative can tell you your current monthly payment amount, when your next payment will arrive, and your recent payment history over the phone.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it. Staff can print out your payment history and answer questions about your account. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator by entering your zip code.
Understanding your payment amount changes
Your SSI payment amount can change for several reasons: a change in your living situation, a change in your income, a change in your resources (money or property you own), or an annual cost-of-living adjustment that Social Security makes each year. When your payment changes, Social Security sends you a notice in the mail explaining why.
If you see a change in your payment amount in your account and you did not receive a notice, or if the notice does not explain the change clearly, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Do not assume the change is an error — Social Security may have updated information about your situation — but you have the right to ask for an explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my SSI account?
Check your account at least once a month, around the time your payment is due. This helps you catch any errors or delays right away. Many people check on the first business day of the month to confirm their deposit arrived.
What if I forgot my my Social Security password?
Click "Forgot password?" on the ssa.gov login page and follow the steps to reset it. If that does not work, call 1-800-772-1213 and Social Security staff can help you reset your password or create a new account.
Can I see my payment history for years past?
Yes. Your my Social Security account shows your payment history going back several years. If you need records from further back, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and they can provide older statements.
Is my information safe on the my Social Security website?
The my Social Security website uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. Do not share your login with anyone else, and do not log in from a public computer if you can avoid it.
What if my bank account information is wrong in my SSI account?
Log into your account and update your direct deposit information in the settings. Changes usually take one or two pay periods. If you need the change to happen faster, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.