What you need to do to change your routing number
To change the routing number for your SSDI direct deposit, you contact Social Security directly—either by phone, in person, or online through your my Social Security account. Social Security does not process routing number changes through banks or third parties. You will need your Social Security number, the new routing number from your bank, and your account number at that bank.
The change typically takes effect within one to two pay cycles, though Social Security recommends allowing up to two weeks to be safe. During that time, your payment may still go to the old account, so do not close the old account when ready after requesting the change.
If you are switching banks entirely, contact your new bank first to confirm the routing number and account number they want you to provide. Banks sometimes use different routing numbers for different types of transactions, so asking the bank directly prevents delays.
Key Takeaways
- You must contact Social Security directly to change your routing number—your bank cannot make this change for you.
- Have your new bank's routing number and your account number ready before you call or log in.
- The change takes one to two pay cycles to take effect, so keep your old account open during the transition.
- You can make the change by phone, in person at a Social Security office, or through your my Social Security account online.
Changing your routing number by phone
Call Social Security's main number at 1-800-772-1213. Have your Social Security number and the new routing and account numbers ready. The representative will verify your identity and update your direct deposit information in their system.
Phone lines are typically less busy early in the morning or mid-week. If you reach a representative, the change is usually completed during the call, though you may receive a confirmation letter in the mail within one to two weeks.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call the TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
Changing your routing number online through my Social Security
If you have a my Social Security account, you can change your direct deposit information without calling. Log in at ssa.gov/myaccount, go to the "Payment Information" or "Direct Deposit" section (the exact name varies), and select the option to update your bank details.
Enter your new routing number and account number, then submit. The system will confirm the change when ready. You will see a confirmation on screen, and Social Security will send a confirmation letter to your mailing address within one to two weeks.
Creating a my Social Security account takes about 10 minutes if you do not already have one. You will need your email address, a password, and a way to verify your identity (usually a phone number or credit report information).
Changing your routing number in person
Visit your local Social Security office with your Social Security card and a photo ID. Bring a document from your bank showing the new routing number and account number—a bank statement, a voided check, or a letter from the bank all work.
The office staff will update your information on the spot. Ask for a receipt or confirmation before you leave, and expect a confirmation letter in the mail within one to two weeks.
Wait times at Social Security offices vary widely by location and time of day. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.
What happens during the transition period
After you request the change, Social Security's system updates within one business day. However, the actual deposit to your new account may not happen until your next scheduled payment date, which could be up to two weeks away.
During this time, your payment might still go to the old account. Do not close the old account until at least one full payment has arrived in the new account. If a payment lands in the old account by mistake after the change, contact Social Security to report it.
If you need the money urgently and the change has not taken effect by your payment date, you can contact Social Security to ask about the status. They can tell you whether the payment went to the old or new account.
If you entered the wrong routing or account number
If you realize you made a mistake after submitting the change, contact Social Security when ready using any of the three methods above. The sooner you report the error, the less likely your payment will go to the wrong account.
If a payment has already gone to the wrong account, Social Security can help you recover it, but the process takes longer. Contact them right away rather than waiting for the next payment cycle.
Always double-check the routing and account numbers with your bank before submitting them to Social Security. A single digit wrong will send your payment to the wrong place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my bank change my direct deposit routing number for SSDI?
No. Your bank cannot update your SSDI direct deposit information. You must contact Social Security directly. If your bank merged with another bank or changed its routing number, you still need to call Social Security or log into my Social Security to update the information yourself.
How long does it take for the new routing number to work?
The change takes effect in Social Security's system within one business day, but your actual payment may not arrive in the new account until your next scheduled payment date. Allow one to two weeks total. Keep your old account open during this time in case a payment lands there by mistake.
What if I do not have a my Social Security account and do not want to call?
You can visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring your Social Security card, a photo ID, and a document from your bank showing the new routing and account numbers. The staff will update your information on the spot.
Will I miss a payment if I change my routing number?
No. Social Security will not skip a payment because you changed your routing number. The payment will go to either your old or new account depending on when the change takes effect relative to your payment date. Keep both accounts open temporarily to catch any payments that go to the old account.
What information do I need from my bank?
You need the routing number (a nine-digit code) and your account number at the new bank. You can find both on a voided check, a bank statement, or by calling your bank's customer service. Ask the bank to confirm these numbers are correct before you give them to Social Security.