Where to check your SSDI or SSI status

You can check the status of your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) case online through my Social Security, the official Social Security account portal. This is where Social Security posts updates about your case, your payment amount, and any documents they need from you.

To use my Social Security, you need to create an account with a username and password, or sign in using Login.gov credentials. Once you're logged in, you can see your current benefit status, view your payment history, and check for any messages from Social Security about your case.

If you don't have internet access or prefer to speak with someone directly, you can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to ask about your case status. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.

Key Takeaways

  • My Social Security is the official website where you can see your current benefit status, payment history, and any messages from Social Security about your case.
  • You must create an account or use Login.gov to access my Social Security; there is no way to check your status without logging in.
  • If you're waiting for a decision on a new process, the status page will show whether Social Security is still reviewing your case or if they need more information from you.
  • Calling 1-800-772-1213 is an alternative if you cannot access the website or need to speak with someone about your specific situation.

What information you'll find in your account

Once you log into my Social Security, you can see your current monthly payment amount, the date your benefits started, and your payment history going back several years. The site also shows your earnings record, which is important because your SSDI payment is based on your work history.

If Social Security needs documents from you—such as a medical report, proof of income, or a change-of-address form—they will post a message in your account. This message will tell you exactly what they need and when they need it by. Checking your account regularly means you won't miss a important date.

The account also displays any changes to your case, such as a recent review of your medical condition or a change in your payment amount. If you receive SSI, you can see how your payment is calculated and what resources Social Security is counting toward your limit.

How to create a my Social Security account

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "my Social Security" link, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select "Create an account." You'll be asked to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address.

Social Security will send you a verification code to your email. Enter that code to confirm your email address. Then you'll create a username and password—make sure your password is strong and something you can remember.

Alternatively, you can use your Login.gov account if you already have one. Login.gov is a government-wide sign-in system that works with many federal agencies. If you choose this route, Social Security will link your Login.gov account to your Social Security record.

What to do if you can't log in or see your information

If you've forgotten your password, click "Forgot username or password?" on the my Social Security login page. Social Security will send you a link to reset it. Make sure you check your spam folder if you don't see the email within a few minutes.

If you've never created an account and you're having trouble during setup, the problem is usually that Social Security's records don't match what you entered. Double-check that you're using your legal name exactly as it appears on your Social Security card, and that your date of birth is correct.

If you still cannot create an account or log in after trying these steps, call 1-800-772-1213. A Social Security representative can verify your identity over the phone and help you set up your account or retrieve your information.

Checking status if you're waiting for a decision

If you've recently filed for SSDI or SSI and are waiting for a decision, my Social Security will show your case status. The status might say "We are reviewing your process" or "We need more information from you." If Social Security needs documents, the message will specify what they need and the important date for sending it.

The time it takes to get a decision varies. Initial decisions usually take three to six months, but some cases take longer if Social Security needs medical records from your doctors or if your case is complex. Checking your account regularly tells you whether your case is still being reviewed or whether action is needed from you.

If the status says Social Security needs information from you and you don't respond by the important date, they may deny your case. If that happens, you can file an appeal, but it's easier to send the information they ask for before the important date passes.

Understanding your payment information online

Your my Social Security account shows your monthly payment amount and the date it's deposited into your bank account. If you receive SSDI, this amount is based on your work history and the age at which you became disabled. If you receive SSI, the amount depends on your income and resources.

The account also displays your payment history—a record of every payment you've received. This is useful if you need to verify to a landlord, lender, or other organization that you receive benefits. You can print or read this history directly from the website.

If your payment amount changes, my Social Security will show the new amount and explain why it changed. Common reasons include a cost-of-living adjustment (which happens once a year), a change in your work earnings, or a change in your living situation if you receive SSI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check someone else's disability status if I have power of attorney?

If you have legal power of attorney or are an authorized representative, you may be able to access their account through my Social Security. You'll need to set up a separate account and link it to their record. Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm what documents you need to provide.

How often should I check my my Social Security account?

Check your account at least once a month, or more often if you're waiting for a decision on an process. This way you'll see any messages from Social Security right away and won't miss a important date for sending documents.

What if my payment amount looks wrong?

If your payment seems incorrect, log into my Social Security and look for an explanation of how it was calculated. If you still think there's an error, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask a representative to review your case. Have your account information ready when you call.

Is my Social Security account find?

My Social Security uses encryption and security measures to protect your personal information. However, never share your username, password, or Social Security number with anyone. Social Security will never ask for this information by email or phone.

Can I update my address or banking information online?

Yes, you can update your mailing address and direct deposit information through my Social Security. Changes usually take effect within a few days. If you need to make changes urgently, you can also call 1-800-772-1213.