Frauds & Scams, Online Services

Protecting Your Social Security

September 15, 2017 • By

Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Last Updated: November 3, 2023

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At Social Security, protecting your personal information is more important than ever. We continue to evaluate and improve our robust cyber-security program to safeguard your information. The thing is, we can’t do it alone. You can help us secure your information by taking one of these steps:

  • Open your personal my Social Security account. A my Social Security  account is your gateway to many of our online services. Create your account today and take away the risk of someone else trying to create one in your name, even if they obtain your Social Security number.
  • If you already have a my Social Security  account, but haven’t signed in lately, take a moment to log in. We’ll send a one-time security code to your cell phone or to your email address each time you sign in with your username and password. The security code is part of our enhanced security feature to protect your personal information. Keep in mind that your cell phone provider’s text message and data rates may apply. If you suspect identity theft, report it to our Office of the Inspector General. 
  • If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, and you don’t want to do business with us online, you can contact us to block any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security record. No one, including you, will be able to see or change your personal information on the internet or through our automated telephone service. If you block access to your record and then change your mind in the future, you can contact us and ask us to unblock it after you prove your identity. This resource is available to certain victims of domestic violence or identity theft and those who need extra security.

We will continue to do our part to protect what’s important to you. And we’ll continue to advise you on how to protect yourself.

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About the Author

Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications

Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications

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Comments

  1. Carol B.

    I tried to reset my password. I entered my information, but got a message the my information was not correct. I reviewed my information and verified that it was correct.

  2. Beth B.

    Tried serveral times to reset my account. The system would not let me get log in or get my user name and reset my password.

    • V. R.

      same problem more than once I don’t trust this site.

  3. Benita N.

    I can’t access my account. I know the answers to the 3 questions and password but I can’t get in.

    • R.F.

      Hi Benita, if you are unable to create an account or encounter a problem with your my Social Security account, you may:
      •Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. At the voice prompt, say “help desk”; or
      •Contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!

  4. SHERIDAN T.

    I have filled out forms to get help with medicine cost and medical cost. When will I hear back?

  5. SHERIDAN T.

    i HAVE FILLED OUT FORMS ONLINE FOR MEDICAL HELP. WHEN WILL I GET AN ANSWER?

  6. Iris M.

    I tried to go to my account last night, and was required to update my password. I changed it, and my account was suspended for 24 hours! I am trying to change instant deposit to debit. Any suggestions?

    • R.F.

      Hi Iris. If you are unable to create an account or encounter a problem with your my Social Security account, you may:
      •Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. At the voice prompt, say “helpdesk”; or
      •Contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!

  7. Becky S.

    When checking out at Home Depot today they asked me if I wanted a Home Depot rewards card. I have one from Ace and they scan it each time you check out. At Home Depot they wanted my drivers license and then wanted me to enter my SS number in the key pad. I told them no and it just seemed strange that they would even ask for it. Thank you, Becky Salzsieder

    • R.F.

      Hi Becky! Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her Social Security number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone’s number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law. Sometimes they will issue a different number if you ask.

  8. Earle F.

    How can I change the bank account to which my Social Security check is sent each month

  9. Michela

    During a credit check it was revealed to me that somebody else has the same SSN as I do. What do you suggest I do?

  10. Roxann D.

    Can’t login to my online account

    • J.Y.

      We are sorry you are having difficulty with your personal my Social Security account. For assistance, please call 1-800-772-1213. After you hear “Briefly tell me why you are calling,” say “Help Desk” for help with a my Social Security account. Sometimes, it might be best to visit your local Social Security office for further assistance. To find out how to locate your local office, please visit http://go.usa.gov/Z4fT. We hope this helps!

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