Creating and logging into your Social Security account

You can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. This is the official Social Security Administration website — not a third-party service. You will need an email address and a way to verify your identity, which the site handles through a few different methods.

The fastest way to verify is through ID.me, a service that checks your identity using information from government records. You can also verify through Login.gov, another government identity service, or by answering security questions based on your credit history. Once you are verified, you create a password and can log in anytime.

If you already have a Login.gov or ID.me account from using another government website, you can use those credentials to sign into your Social Security account directly — you do not have to create a separate password.

Key Takeaways

  • You create your account at ssa.gov/myaccount using your email address and one of three identity verification methods: ID.me, Login.gov, or credit history questions.
  • Once logged in, you can view your earnings record, check your benefit statement, and see estimates of what you might receive at different retirement ages.
  • If you already use Login.gov or ID.me for another government service, you can use those same credentials to access your Social Security account.
  • The Social Security Administration does not call, email, or text you asking for your password or personal information — any message claiming to be from Social Security asking for these details is a scam.

What you can see once you are logged in

Your account shows your earnings record — a year-by-year list of wages you have earned that Social Security has on file. This matters because your benefit amount is based on your highest 35 years of earnings. You should check this record to make sure it is correct, because errors can lower your benefit.

You can also view your benefit statement, which shows estimates of how much you might receive if you claim at different ages. Social Security lets you claim as early as 62 or as late as 70, and your monthly payment is higher the longer you wait. The statement shows these different amounts so you can understand the trade-off.

The account also lets you request a replacement Social Security card if yours is lost or damaged, though you will need to verify your identity again and may need to visit a local Social Security office to pick it up, depending on your state.

Fixing errors in your earnings record

If you spot a mistake — a missing year of earnings, a wrong amount, or wages credited to the wrong name — you need to report it to Social Security. You cannot fix it through your online account. Instead, contact your local Social Security office by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or visit in person.

Bring documents that prove your earnings, such as old tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs. Social Security will investigate and correct the record if the error is confirmed. This process can take several weeks, so report errors as soon as you notice them — especially if you are close to claiming benefits.

Identity verification methods explained

ID.me is the fastest option for most people. It verifies your identity by checking government records and may ask you to take a photo of your driver's license or passport. The whole process usually takes a few minutes.

Login.gov is another government service that verifies your identity. If you already have a Login.gov account from using other government websites, you can skip the verification step and use those credentials directly.

If neither of those works for you, Social Security offers a third option: answering security questions based on your credit history. This takes longer because the questions are generated by a credit agency, but it does not require a government ID or existing account.

What to do if you cannot verify your identity online

If all three online verification methods fail, you can still access your account by visiting a Social Security office in person. Bring a government-issued ID and proof of your address (such as a utility bill or lease). An employee will verify your identity and help you create your account.

You can find your local office at ssa.gov/locator or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Wait times at offices vary by location and time of day, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.

Protecting your account from scams

Social Security will never contact you by phone, email, or text asking for your password, Social Security number, or other personal information. If you receive a message claiming to be from Social Security asking for these details, it is a scam — do not respond or click any links.

Legitimate Social Security communications come through your online account or by mail. If you are unsure whether a message is real, log into your account directly (do not use any link from the message) or call 1-800-772-1213 to ask.

Use a strong, unique password for your Social Security account — one you do not use for other websites. If you think someone has accessed your account without permission, change your password when ready and call Social Security to report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to create an account to check my Social Security benefits?

Yes, you need an account at ssa.gov/myaccount to view your earnings record and benefit estimates online. Without an account, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with someone, but creating an account lets you check anytime without waiting on hold.

What if I forgot my password?

Click "Forgot password?" on the login page. Social Security will send a reset link to your email address. If you cannot access that email, you can verify your identity again using ID.me, Login.gov, or security questions to regain access.

Can I check my account on my phone?

Yes, you can log into ssa.gov/myaccount on any device with a web browser, including phones and tablets. Social Security also has a mobile app called "my Social Security" available on iOS and Android that lets you check your account on the go.

Is my information safe on the Social Security website?

The Social Security Administration uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. However, you should never share your password with anyone, and always log in directly at ssa.gov rather than clicking links from emails or texts.

What if I do not have an email address?

You need an email address to create an account. If you do not have one, you can create a free email account through Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo. Once you have an email address, you can create your Social Security account.