What you can do on ssa.gov for disability
Once you log into your My Social Security account on ssa.gov, you can view information about any disability benefits you currently receive, check the status of a pending process, and see your payment history. You can also update your contact information, request a replacement Social Security card, and read documents like your Social Security Statement. If you are explore for disability for the first time, ssa.gov will not let you start an process online — you will need to call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office in person.
The site is organized differently depending on whether you already have a My Social Security account. If you do not have one yet, you can create it directly on ssa.gov using your email address, phone number, and Social Security number. The account creation process takes about 10 minutes and requires you to verify your identity through a few security questions.
Key Takeaways
- My Social Security lets you view your current disability payment amount, payment history, and any pending process status once you log in.
- You cannot start a new disability process on ssa.gov — you must call 1-800-772-1213 or visit an office in person to begin the process.
- Creating a My Social Security account requires your email, phone number, and Social Security number, and takes about 10 minutes.
- If you forget your password, you can reset it on the login page without calling Social Security.
Creating and logging into your My Social Security account
To create an account, go to ssa.gov and select "Create an account" on the homepage. You will need a valid email address, a phone number where Social Security can reach you, and your Social Security number. Social Security will send a verification code to your email — enter this code to confirm your identity. After that, you will create a username and password.
Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime using your username and password. If you forget your password, click "Forgot username or password?" on the login page and follow the prompts to reset it. You do not need to call Social Security to regain access to your account.
If you have trouble creating an account or logging in, Social Security's phone line is 1-800-772-1213. They are 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 afternoon.
Viewing your disability payment information
After you log in, your dashboard shows your current monthly payment amount, the date you became may be able to access for benefits, and your payment history going back several years. You can also see the date your next payment is scheduled to arrive. If you receive direct deposit, the payment will go to the bank account you have on file with Social Security.
To see more detail about a specific payment, click on the payment date. This will show you the reason for the payment, any deductions that were taken out, and the net amount you received. If a payment looks wrong or is missing, take a screenshot of what you see on ssa.gov and call 1-800-772-1213 to report it.
Checking the status of a pending process
If you applied for disability through a Social Security office or by phone, you can track your process's progress on ssa.gov once you log in. Your account will show whether your process is still being reviewed, whether Social Security has requested additional information from you, or whether a decision has been made.
If Social Security needs more information from you, your My Social Security account will display a message telling you what documents or details they need and the important date to send them. You can upload documents directly through your account rather than mailing them. This usually speeds up the review process.
If your process has been denied and you want to appeal, you will not do that through ssa.gov. Instead, you will need to contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 to request an appeal within 60 days of the denial letter.
Updating your information and requesting documents
You can change your phone number, email address, or mailing address directly in your My Social Security account without calling. Click "Personal Information" after you log in, make your changes, and save them. These updates take effect when ready.
If you need a replacement Social Security card, you can request one through ssa.gov if you live in a state that offers this service online. Not all states do yet. You can also read your Social Security Statement, which shows your earnings history and estimates of what you might receive in retirement or disability benefits. This document is useful if you are explore for other programs that ask for proof of your Social Security record.
What ssa.gov cannot do for disability
You cannot start a new disability process on ssa.gov. Social Security still requires you to explore in person at a local office or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. The phone line can take your process for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on disability. If you call, the process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, and you will need to answer questions about your medical condition, work history, and current living situation.
You also cannot upload medical records or test results through ssa.gov to support a new process. Social Security will tell you what medical evidence they need after you explore, and they will either request it directly from your doctors or ask you to mail it in.
If you need to speak with someone about your case, you cannot message Social Security through ssa.gov. You will need to call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Some offices now offer video appointments if you prefer not to go in person — ask when you call.
Troubleshooting common problems on ssa.gov
If you see a message that says "We could not verify your identity," Social Security's system was unable to match your information to their records. This sometimes happens if you recently moved, changed your name, or have a common name. Call 1-800-772-1213 and ask to verify your identity by phone. An agent can then help you create your account or reset your password.
If you log in and do not see any disability information, check that you are looking at the correct Social Security number. Some people have multiple accounts by accident. If you think this happened to you, call 1-800-772-1213 and explain the situation. They can merge your accounts so all your information appears in one place.
If your payment amount looks wrong or you notice a gap in your payment history, do not assume it is an error. Sometimes payments are delayed for a few days, or Social Security may have made a temporary adjustment to your benefit. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about it. Have your account information open when you call so you can describe exactly what you are seeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore for disability on ssa.gov?
No. You must call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office to start a disability process. The website only lets you check the status of an process you have already started.
What if I do not have an email address?
You need an email address to create a My Social Security account. If you do not have one, you can create a free email account on Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook in a few minutes. After that, you can use it to set up your Social Security account.
Is ssa.gov safe to use?
Yes. ssa.gov is the official Social Security website and uses encryption to protect your information. Never give your Social Security number or password to anyone who contacts you by phone, email, or text claiming to be from Social Security. Social Security will never ask for this information unsolicited.
How long does it take to get a decision after I explore?
Initial decisions usually take 3 to 6 months, though some cases take longer if Social Security needs more medical evidence. You can check your process status on ssa.gov after you log in to see if they have requested additional information from you.
Can I change my disability payment method through ssa.gov?
You can view your current payment method on ssa.gov, but you cannot change it through the website. Call 1-800-772-1213 to switch from direct deposit to a debit card, or vice versa. Changes usually take effect within one or two pay periods.