What the Social Security Website Does
The official Social Security website is ssa.gov, run by the Social Security Administration. It holds information about retirement, disability, survivor benefits, and Medicare. You can check your earnings record, create an account to view your statement, and read about the programs themselves. The site also has a search tool and links to local Social Security offices.
The website is not where you file for benefits — that happens through a separate process process. But it is where you learn what programs exist, what documents you might need, and how to contact your local office. Many people start here when they have a question about Social Security but do not know which program applies to them.
Key Takeaways
- The main Social Security website is ssa.gov, and it contains information about retirement, disability, survivor benefits, and Medicare may be able to access.
- You can create a my Social Security account to view your earnings record and benefit statement without visiting an office.
- The site has a search function and an office locator tool so you can find your nearest Social Security office by zip code.
- Information on ssa.gov is free and does not require you to pay anyone to read it or understand your options.
Creating a my Social Security Account
A my Social Security account is a free login you create on ssa.gov. It lets you view your earnings record — the wages Social Security has on file for you — and see an estimate of what your retirement or disability benefit might be. You do not need to go to an office or call anyone to set one up.
To create an account, go to ssa.gov and look for the "Sign In" button in the upper right. Select "Create an account" and follow the steps. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or mailing address on file. The verification takes a few minutes and happens right on the screen.
Once you are logged in, you can view your Statement, which shows your earnings history and an estimate of your retirement benefit at different ages. You can also see if you are receiving benefits and view payment history if you already get a check.
Finding Information About Specific Programs
Social Security runs several different programs, and the website has a section for each one. If you are not sure which program you might be interested in, the site has a tool that asks you a few questions and points you toward the right one.
The main programs are retirement (for people at or near age 62), disability (for people who cannot work due to a medical condition), survivor benefits (for family members of someone who has died), and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI (for people with low income and limited resources). Each program has its own page with may be able to access information and next steps.
You can also search ssa.gov by typing a question into the search box at the top of any page. The results usually include fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and links to the right section of the site.
Using the Office Locator and Contact Tools
Social Security has local offices in most towns and cities. The website has an office locator tool that shows you the nearest one and its hours. Go to ssa.gov, scroll to the bottom of the page, and look for "Find a Social Security Office." Enter your zip code and the tool will show offices near you, their phone numbers, and whether they are open for walk-ins or by appointment only.
You can also call Social Security's main number, 1-800-772-1213, to ask a question or request an appointment. The line is 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.
If you prefer not to call, you can visit an office in person. Many offices now require an appointment, which you can schedule through the office locator tool or by calling the local office directly.
Understanding Your Earnings Record
Your earnings record is a list of all the wages you have earned that Social Security has on file. Your benefit amount is based on this record, so it is important to check it for mistakes. You can view your record in your my Social Security account under the "Earnings Record" tab.
The record shows the year, your wages, and how much you paid in Social Security tax for each year you worked. If you see a year with no wages or wages that seem too low, you may need to contact Social Security to correct it. You will need tax records or W-2 forms from that year to prove the correct amount.
If you find an error, you can report it through your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Social Security will investigate and correct the record if the error is confirmed. It is a good idea to check your record every few years, especially if you have changed jobs or been self-employed.
What You Cannot Do on the Website
The Social Security website provides information, but it does not process applications or make decisions about your case. You cannot file for benefits through ssa.gov — you have to do that through a separate process process, either online through a different portal, by phone, or in person at an office.
You also cannot use the website to report a change in your situation, such as a change of address or a return to work. Those changes have to be reported by phone or in person. The website will tell you how to report a change, but it does not accept the report itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to create a my Social Security account online?
Yes. The Social Security website uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. You will be asked to verify your identity before you can create an account, which adds another layer of protection. Social Security does not ask for your password by email or phone.
Can I file for benefits on ssa.gov?
No. The website lets you view information and your earnings record, but you cannot file for benefits there. To file, you can call 1-800-772-1213, visit a local office, or use the online filing system at ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/start-process.html for retirement benefits specifically.
What if I cannot find the answer to my question on the website?
You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. You can also use the office locator tool on ssa.gov to find the phone number and hours of the office nearest you. Many offices have staff who can answer questions by phone during business hours.
How often should I check my earnings record?
Social Security suggests checking your record at least once a year, especially if you have changed jobs or been self-employed. Errors are rare but can affect your benefit amount, so catching them early gives you time to correct them before you file.
Do I need to pay anyone to help me use the Social Security website?
No. The website and all the information on it are free. You do not need to pay a third party to create an account, view your record, or understand your options. Be cautious of websites or services that charge a fee to help you with Social Security — most of what they offer is available for free on ssa.gov.