The fastest way to see your Social Security record
You can view your Social Security account through my Social Security, a free online portal run by the Social Security Administration. Once you create an account, you can see your earnings history, check how much you have paid into the system, and view an estimate of what you might receive at retirement. The site also lets you replace a lost Social Security card and change your address without visiting an office.
You do not need to call or visit a Social Security office to check your account. Everything happens online, and you can look at your information whenever you want.
Key Takeaways
- Create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount using your email address, Social Security number, and a phone number where you can receive a text or call.
- The site shows your complete earnings history, how much you have paid in taxes, and an estimate of your retirement benefit based on your current age and work record.
- You can replace a lost or stolen Social Security card through the portal without leaving home, though some states require an in-person visit.
- If you cannot create an account online, you can request a paper earnings statement by mail or visit a local Social Security office in person.
Creating your my Social Security account
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select "Create an account." You will need your email address, a password, and your Social Security number. The site will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your financial history — things like past loan amounts or credit card accounts. This step takes a few minutes and happens only once.
After you answer the security questions, Social Security will send a verification code to your phone by text or call. Enter that code on the website, and your account is active. You can then log in anytime using your email and password.
What information you can see in your account
Once you log in, you will see your earnings record — a year-by-year breakdown of how much you earned and how much you paid in Social Security taxes. This record is important because your benefit amount is based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you spot an error, such as a year where your employer did not report your wages correctly, you can report it through the site.
You will also see an earnings estimate, which shows roughly how much you could receive each month if you retire at different ages — typically at 62, your full retirement age (which varies by birth year), or at 70. This estimate is based on your current earnings record and assumes you do not work again. The estimate updates each year as you earn more.
The site displays your benefit statement, which summarizes your work history, your estimated benefits, and information about Medicare. You can print or save this statement as a PDF.
Replacing a lost Social Security card through the portal
If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you can order a replacement through my Social Security without visiting an office. Log in, select "Replacement Social Security Card," and follow the steps. You will need to confirm your identity and choose whether you want the card mailed to your address on file or to a different address.
The card usually arrives within two weeks. However, some states require you to explore in person at a Social Security office or a state ID office. The website will tell you whether your state requires an in-person visit before you finish the request.
What to do if you cannot create an account online
If the identity verification questions do not work for you — for example, if you have limited credit history or have recently moved — you have other options. You can request a paper earnings statement by mail through the my Social Security website, even without creating an account. Select "Get a replacement Social Security card or view your earnings record" and choose "Request a benefit verification letter or earnings statement." Social Security will mail it to you in about two weeks.
You can also visit a local Social Security office in person. Find the nearest office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it. Office staff can print your earnings record on the spot and answer questions about your account.
Understanding your earnings record and why it matters
Your earnings record is the foundation of your Social Security benefit. The system takes your 35 highest-earning years and calculates an average. If you have worked fewer than 35 years, zeros are added for the missing years, which lowers your average and your benefit amount.
Errors in your earnings record can happen. If your employer reported your wages under the wrong name or Social Security number, or if they did not report them at all, those earnings will not show up. You have a limited time to correct errors — generally three years, three months, and 15 days from the end of the year in which you earned the wages. If you spot a mistake, report it through my Social Security or contact your local office.
How often to check your account
Social Security recommends checking your account once a year to make sure your earnings record is correct. The best time is after you file your taxes, when all your income for the previous year has been reported. If you are close to retirement, you might check more often to see how your benefit estimate changes as you earn more.
You can also check your account if you change jobs, get married, or have a major life change that might affect your benefits. The earnings estimate updates automatically as new information is added to your record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my Social Security account information find?
The my Social Security portal uses encryption and requires identity verification before you can create an account. Your information is protected the same way banks protect their online accounts. However, you should use a strong password and never share your login details with anyone.
Can I check my Social Security account on my phone?
Yes. The my Social Security website works on phones and tablets. You can also read the official Social Security mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to view your account on your phone.
What if I do not have an email address?
You will 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, or Yahoo. Once you have an email address, you can set up your Social Security account. If you prefer not to use email, you can request a paper earnings statement by mail instead.
Can I see my Social Security account if I am not yet retired?
Yes. You can create a my Social Security account at any age once you have a Social Security number. Many people check their account in their 30s and 40s to see how much they have earned and to catch any errors early, when they are easier to fix.
What if my earnings estimate seems too low?
Your estimate is based only on your earnings record up to the current date. If you continue to work and earn more, your estimate will increase. The estimate also assumes you do not work after you retire. If you work part-time after you start receiving benefits, your benefit amount may be temporarily reduced, depending on your age.