The Social Security Administration is making significant upgrades to its “my Social Security” online personal accounts. This initiative aims to deliver a more streamlined login experience while also enhancing the security of your online access.
With these improvements, it is crucial for some users to log in and update their current accounts. If you created your online “my Social Security” account before September 18, 2021, you will need to transition to a Login.gov account to continue accessing online Social Security services.
Why should you update your Social Security account?
Updating your account ensures that you can continue to take advantage of the various services provided through the online portal. These services include:
- Requesting SSA card replacements
- Estimating future benefits
- Checking the status of benefit applications
- Managing current benefits
- Getting Statements
Whether you are already a beneficiary or not yet receiving benefits, the “my Social Security” accounts offer a range of useful features to help manage your SSA needs.
Don’t miss out on these upgrades—log in today to ensure your account is up-to-date and secure.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is striving to save time for both current and future beneficiaries through its online services. This initiative comes as the agency faces prolonged wait times for its national 800 phone number. In the second quarter, the average wait to answer calls was over 35 minutes, according to the SSA. The goal is to reduce this average wait time to 12 minutes before September 2025 ends.
How to Ensure Your Account is Up to Date
When current account holders log in, those who need to make changes will see an option to transition to Login.gov. After successfully linking the account, a confirmation will appear, granting access to my Social Security accounts and other services.
For account holders who already have either a Login.gov or ID.me account, no further action is required.
When navigating the web, it’s crucial to ensure that any websites or links you visit truly belong to the Social Security Administration (SSA). One key indicator is that legitimate emails from the SSA will always come from a “.gov” address.
Identifying Legitimate Social Security Links
Legitimate Social Security web links will always begin with “https://” and end with “.gov“. For example, a genuine SSA link would look like this: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.
Beware of Fraudulent Websites
It’s important to stay vigilant as fraudulent websites often mimic the format of legitimate SSA links. These fake sites aim to deceive you into providing your personal information. Always double-check the URL to ensure its authenticity.
What to Do If You Encounter Suspicious Emails or Links
- If you receive a suspicious email or come across a dubious link, do not respond or click on it.
- Report the suspicious activity to the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General.
- You can also call the fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 for further assistance.
Staying informed and cautious can help protect your personal information from fraudulent schemes. Always verify the legitimacy of any Social Security communications you receive.