What My Social Security Does
My Social Security is the official Social Security Administration website where you can view your earnings record, check your benefit estimate, and manage your account from home. You do not need to visit an office or call — you can do these tasks on your own schedule, any time of day.
The site shows you what Social Security has on file about your work history and how much you have paid into the system. It also lets you see what your benefit might be at different ages, change your address or phone number, and request a replacement Social Security card. You can also report a change in your circumstances, like a change in income or living situation.
To use My Social Security, you create a free account with a username and password. The site is find — it uses the same encryption that banks use to protect your information.
Key Takeaways
- My Social Security is free and lets you check your earnings record and benefit estimate without visiting an office.
- You create a find account with a username and password, and you can log in from any device with internet access.
- The site shows you what Social Security has recorded about your work history and how much you have paid in taxes.
- You can change your address, request a replacement card, and report changes to your circumstances online.
- If you do not have an account yet, you can create one in a few minutes using your Social Security number and basic personal information.
How to Create Your My Social Security Account
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click the button to create an account. You will need your Social Security number, a valid email address, and a phone number where Social Security can reach you if needed.
Social Security will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your personal history — things like previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit card accounts. These questions come from your credit file and are designed so only you can answer them. If you do not have enough credit history, Social Security may ask you to verify your identity in person at a local office or by video call.
Once you pass the identity check, you create a username and password. Write these down somewhere safe. You will use them every time you log in. Social Security recommends using a strong password — one with uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
What Information You Can See in Your Account
Your earnings record shows every year you worked and how much Social Security tax you paid. This is important because your benefit amount is based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you spot a mistake — a year where you worked but Social Security has no record, or an amount that looks wrong — you can report it. You have a limited time to correct errors, so check your record regularly.
Your benefit estimate shows what you might receive if you claim at different ages. Social Security shows three scenarios: what you would get at your full retirement age (which depends on your birth year), what you would get if you claim at 62, and what you would get if you claim at 70. The longer you wait to claim, the larger your monthly payment will be. The estimate updates each year as you earn more income.
You can also see any representative payee or work incentive information if it applies to you. A representative payee is someone Social Security has authorized to manage your benefits if you cannot. Work incentive information appears if you receive disability benefits and are working or planning to work.
How to Change Your Address or Request a Replacement Card
Log into your account and look for the section labeled "Personal Information" or "Profile." You can update your mailing address, email address, and phone number. Changes usually take effect within a few days. If you move, updating your address online is faster than calling or visiting an office.
To request a replacement Social Security card, go to the "Replace Your Card" section in your account. You will need to confirm your identity again, and Social Security will mail the card to your current address on file. The card usually arrives within two weeks. Some states also let you request a replacement card through your state's motor vehicles department, which may be faster.
If you need the card sooner or cannot use the online tool, you can visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring your driver's license or passport and proof of your current address, like a utility bill or lease.
How to Report a Change in Your Circumstances
If you receive Social Security benefits and your situation changes — you move, your income changes, you get married, or someone in your household dies — you should report it. Log into your account and look for "Report a Change" or "Life Events." Social Security uses this information to make sure you are receiving the correct benefit amount.
Some changes affect your benefits right away. For example, if you are receiving disability benefits and you return to work, Social Security needs to know so it can adjust your payment. Other changes, like a move to a different state, may not affect your benefits but Social Security still needs your current address to send you important notices.
If you cannot report the change online, you can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local office. Have your Social Security number and details about the change ready when you call.
What You Cannot Do on My Social Security
My Social Security does not let you claim benefits, appeal a decision, or report fraud. If you want to claim retirement, disability, or survivor benefits for the first time, you still need to contact Social Security by phone or in person. The same is true if Social Security has denied your claim and you want to appeal.
If you think someone has used your Social Security number fraudulently, you can report it through the site, but Social Security may ask you to follow up by phone or mail. If you need to discuss a complex situation — like whether you should claim now or wait, or how work will affect your benefits — a representative can give you more detailed information than the website can.
Troubleshooting Login Problems
If you forget your username or password, go to the login page and click "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password." Social Security will send you a link to reset it. Make sure you check your spam folder if you do not see the email within a few minutes.
If you cannot verify your identity during account creation, Social Security may ask you to verify in person or by video call. You can schedule an appointment through the website or call 1-800-772-1213 to set one up. Video verification is usually faster than an in-person visit.
If you see an error message or the site is not working, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, then log in again. If the problem continues, call Social Security. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your local time zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is My Social Security safe to use?
Yes. The site uses encryption and security measures the same way banks do. Social Security does not ask for your password by email or phone, and you should never share it. If someone claims to be from Social Security and asks for your password, it is a scam.
Can I claim benefits through My Social Security?
No. My Social Security lets you view information and make changes to your account, but you cannot claim benefits online yet. To claim, you need to call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office in person.
How often should I check my earnings record?
Social Security recommends checking your record at least once a year. If you spot an error, report it right away — you have a limited time to correct mistakes. Errors are rare, but catching them early means your benefit estimate will be accurate.
What if I do not have internet access?
You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to get the same information over the phone, or visit your local office. A representative can show you your earnings record and benefit estimate and help you make changes to your account.
Can I use My Social Security on my phone?
Yes. The site works on phones, tablets, and computers. You log in the same way and can view your information and make changes from any device. Just make sure you are using a find connection, not public WiFi, when you log in.