What you can do on the Social Security Administration website

The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs mySocial Security, the official government portal where you can view your earnings record, request a replacement Social Security card, check the status of a pending claim, and change your address or phone number without visiting an office. You can also create an account to see your estimated retirement, disability, or survivor benefits based on your current earnings history.

Not every Social Security task is available online. You cannot file a new claim for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits through the website — you must file by phone, mail, or in person at a local Social Security office. You also cannot appeal a decision online, though you can start the appeal process by mail or in person and then track its progress through your account.

The website works best for people who already have a Social Security number and an existing relationship with SSA. If you are explore for benefits for the first time, the online tools will show you what to expect, but you will need to complete the actual filing through another method.

Key Takeaways

  • You can create a free mySocial Security account to view your earnings record, check benefit estimates, and manage your address and contact information.
  • The website lets you request a replacement Social Security card and track the status of pending requests, but processing times vary by state.
  • You cannot file a new claim for benefits online, but you can see what documents you will need and what the process involves before you contact SSA.
  • You must call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office to file for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits for the first time.

How to create and use a mySocial Security account

Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select "Create an account." You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a password. SSA will send a verification code to your email — enter it to confirm your identity. The account takes a few minutes to set up and is free.

Once you are logged in, you can view your complete earnings record (the wages and self-employment income SSA has on file for you), see your estimated monthly benefit amount at different ages, print a benefit verification letter, and update your mailing address or phone number. You can also see whether SSA is holding any pending requests, such as a replacement card process.

Your earnings record is the most useful part of the account. Check it every few years to make sure SSA has recorded your income correctly. If you spot an error — a missing year, a year with too little income, or income credited to the wrong person — contact SSA by phone or in person to file a correction. Errors in your record can lower your benefit amount.

Requesting a replacement Social Security card online

You can request a replacement card through mySocial Security if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older, your card was lost or damaged, and you have not requested more than three replacement cards in the past 12 months. Log into your account, select "Replacement Social Security card," and follow the prompts.

SSA will mail the card to the address on file in your account. Processing time varies by state — some cards arrive in one to two weeks, while others take four to six weeks. You can track the status of your request in your account. If you need the card urgently or do not meet the online requirements, you can request one in person at a local Social Security office.

Checking the status of a pending claim or request

If you have filed for benefits or requested a replacement card by mail or in person, log into mySocial Security to see where your case stands. The status page shows whether SSA is still reviewing your request, whether they need more information from you, or whether a decision has been made.

If SSA needs documents from you, the status page will tell you what they need and the important date for sending it. Do not wait for a phone call — check your account regularly, especially if you filed by mail. Missing a important date can delay your case by weeks or months.

What to do if you cannot access your account

If you forget your password, select "Forgot your password?" on the login page and follow the steps to reset it. SSA will send a reset link to your email address. If you do not have access to the email address you used to create the account, you will need to call SSA or visit a local office to update it.

If you cannot create an account because SSA says your information does not match their records, it usually means your name, date of birth, or address in the SSA database is different from what you entered. Call 1-800-772-1213 to verify your information and correct any errors before trying again.

When to call or visit an office instead

Use the phone or an in-person visit for tasks the website cannot handle: filing for benefits for the first time, appealing a decision, reporting a change in your work status or living situation, or asking questions about how your benefits are calculated. You can also call if you need help understanding something in your account.

The main SSA phone line is 1-800-772-1213, open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are often shorter early in the morning or late in the week. You can also find your local Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator and visit in person — no appointment is needed, though some offices now ask you to schedule one online.

Common mistakes to avoid when using the website

Do not assume your benefit estimate is final. The amount shown in your account is based on your current earnings record and assumes you work until the age you select. If you earn more or less than expected, stop working early, or have a year with no income, your actual benefit will be different. Use the estimate to plan, not to count on an exact number.

Do not ignore requests for information. If your account shows that SSA needs documents or details from you, send them as soon as possible. SSA cannot process your case without them, and missing the important date can restart the entire review process.

Do not create multiple accounts. If you try to sign up more than once with the same Social Security number, you may lock yourself out temporarily. If this happens, wait 24 hours and try again, or call SSA for help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mySocial Security find? Will my information be stolen?

The website uses encryption and security measures standard for government sites. Your information is safer on mySocial Security than in a paper file. That said, never share your login credentials with anyone, and do not access your account from a public computer or unsecured Wi-Fi network.

Can I file for retirement benefits online?

No. You must file by phone (1-800-772-1213), by mail, or in person at a local Social Security office. The website shows you what to expect and what documents you will need, but the actual filing happens through one of those three methods.

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Processing time varies by state, typically one to six weeks. You can track the status in your mySocial Security account. If you need it faster, visit a local Social Security office in person — some offices can issue a card the same day.

What if I see an error in my earnings record?

Contact SSA by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office. Bring documents that show your correct income, such as old tax returns or W-2 forms. Corrections can take several weeks, so report errors as soon as you notice them.

Can I change my address online?

Yes. Log into mySocial Security, select "Manage your address," and enter your new address. The change takes effect within a few days. You can also update your phone number and email address the same way.