If you have ever needed to go to your local Social Security office for a name change or to replace a misplaced Social Security card, you know the process can be frustrating and time-consuming.
In the days before the internet, many Social Security matters could only be handled in person. Now, you can manage much of your Social Security profile and complete a wide range of tasks online.
Anyone planning to claim Social Security benefits in retirement, as well as younger workers who are still years away from that point, will need to create a free account.
Important: If you set up a Social Security username before September 18, 2021, the sign-in process has likely changed. Access now requires a Login.gov account, or you can sign in with an existing Login.gov or ID.me account to use Social Security online services.
This change does not affect your Social Security benefits or Medicare premium deductions.
Creating an account is required for many of the tasks below, and it also helps protect against Social Security fraud.
After your account is in place, you can take control of your benefits by checking your earnings record, estimating future payments, eventually applying for Social Security and Medicare, and much more.
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