Your My Social Security account is where you manage your SSDI record without calling or visiting an office

My Social Security is the Social Security Administration's online portal where you can view your benefit amount, check your payment history, update your address, and read documents you need for work or medical appointments. If you receive SSDI, this account is the fastest way to get information about your own case without waiting on hold.

You access it by signing in at ssa.gov/myaccount with a username and password, or by using a third-party login like Google or Apple ID. Once you are logged in, you see your current benefit rate, the date your benefits started, and a record of every payment you have received. You can also see your earnings record — the wages Social Security has on file for you — which matters if you are working or planning to work while on SSDI.

Key Takeaways

  • My Social Security shows your monthly benefit amount, payment dates, and a complete history of payments received.
  • You can read a benefit verification letter, which you may need to prove your SSDI status to a landlord, lender, or medical provider.
  • The account displays your earnings record, which is critical if you are using work incentives or testing your ability to work.
  • Address changes and some contact updates can be made online, but changes to your medical condition or work status still require contacting Social Security directly.
  • If you lose access to your account, you can reset your password or create a new account using the same Social Security number.

What information appears in your account

When you log in, the dashboard shows your current monthly SSDI payment, the date benefits began, and your payment schedule. Below that is a section called "Benefit Verification Letter," which is a one-page document stating your monthly amount, the month you started receiving benefits, and the fact that you are currently receiving SSDI. Many landlords, mortgage lenders, and utility companies ask for this letter as proof of income.

Your earnings record appears under a separate tab. This record shows what Social Security has recorded for your wages in each year you worked. If you are using a work incentive like the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) or Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), your earnings record is where you can track whether Social Security is counting your income correctly. Errors in this record can affect your benefits, so reviewing it once a year is worth doing.

You can also see the date of your last payment and the method it was deposited — direct deposit to a bank account or a prepaid debit card. If a payment is missing or appears incorrect, this is where you first check whether Social Security processed it.

Downloading documents you may need

The benefit verification letter is the most commonly downloaded document. It is a PDF you can print or save, and it serves as proof that you are receiving SSDI. Landlords often ask for it when you explore for housing. Some employers or schools may ask for it to confirm your status. You can read a new copy any time you need one — there is no limit.

You cannot read your full case file or medical records through My Social Security. If you need copies of the medical evidence Social Security used to approve your claim, or if you need your complete file for an appeal, you must request those through a separate process by contacting your local Social Security office or calling 1-800-772-1213.

Making changes to your account and contact information

You can update your mailing address, phone number, and email address directly in My Social Security. These changes take effect when ready. If you move, updating your address online is faster than calling, and it ensures Social Security has the right place to send notices about your case.

You cannot change your direct deposit information, report a change in your work status, or notify Social Security of a medical change through My Social Security. Those changes require you to contact Social Security by phone at 1-800-772-1213, through your local office, or by mail. If your condition has improved or you have started working, you must report it — failing to do so can result in an overpayment that Social Security will ask you to repay.

Accessing your account if you forget your password

If you cannot remember your password, click "Forgot username or password?" on the login page. Social Security will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or receiving a code by email or text. Once you verify, you can create a new password.

If you cannot access your account through the standard reset process, you can create a new My Social Security account using the same Social Security number. Social Security will link it to your existing record. You will need to verify your identity again, which may require a video call with a Social Security representative if you cannot answer the security questions.

What My Social Security cannot do

My Social Security is a read-only tool for most purposes. You cannot use it to request a hearing, file an appeal, or report a change in your medical condition. You cannot use it to ask questions about your case or request a review of a decision. Those actions require contacting Social Security directly by phone, mail, or in person.

If you are working and need to report your earnings for the year, you cannot do that through My Social Security either. You must contact Social Security to report work activity, especially if you are using a work incentive. Reporting incorrectly or late can result in an overpayment.

Keeping your account find

Your My Social Security account contains sensitive information — your benefit amount, payment history, and earnings record. Use a strong, unique password that you do not use on other websites. Do not share your login information with anyone, including family members or representatives. If someone else needs to access your account, they should contact Social Security to become your authorized representative, which requires a separate legal process.

If you suspect someone has accessed your account without permission, change your password when ready and contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Social Security can flag your account and help you review any unauthorized changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see when my next payment is coming?

Yes. My Social Security shows your payment schedule and the date of your last payment. SSDI payments are typically deposited on the third of each month, but your specific date may vary. If a payment is late, check this section first to see if Social Security has recorded it.

What if the earnings record in my account is wrong?

Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Errors in your earnings record can affect your benefits, especially if you are working or using a work incentive. Social Security can correct the record if you provide documentation of your actual earnings, such as tax returns or pay stubs.

Can I use My Social Security to report that I started working?

No. You must contact Social Security directly to report work activity. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Reporting your work status is important because it affects how much you can earn without losing benefits, and it determines whether work incentives explore to your case.

Is My Social Security the same as my representative payee account?

No. If someone else manages your benefits as your representative payee, they have a separate account. Your My Social Security account is for your own use. A representative payee can view your account information only if you give them your login details, but Social Security recommends against sharing passwords.

What should I do if I cannot create a My Social Security account?

Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. They can help you troubleshoot login problems or create an account if you are having technical difficulties. Bring identification and your Social Security number.