Check Your Social Security Benefit Online
My Social Security lets you view your benefit estimate, earnings record, and manage your account online — no phone hold times required.
3 min read · 5 steps · Checked April 2026
Step 1. Create your my Social Security account
Go to ssa.gov and click "Sign in or Create an Account." First-time users click "Create a new account." You'll be guided to create a Login.gov account (the federal government's secure single sign-on system). You'll need: your email address, a phone or email for verification, and your Social Security number to verify your identity.
Quick Tip
Quick Tip: Login.gov is a secure federal system — your Social Security information stays private and is not shared with other agencies.
Step 2. View your benefit estimate
After signing in, tap "Estimated Benefits" or look for the "My Home" dashboard. You'll see estimated monthly benefit amounts at different ages: at 62 (early reduced), at your full retirement age (66–67 depending on birth year), and at 70 (maximum benefit). This helps you decide when to start collecting.
Step 3. Check your earnings record
Tap "Earnings Record" to see every year of your work history that Social Security has on file. Review this carefully — errors in the earnings record can reduce your benefit. If you spot a year that's wrong or missing (for instance, a job you worked but the earnings don't appear), you can request a correction by contacting Social Security.
Warning
Errors in your earnings record directly reduce your monthly benefit. It's worth checking this at least every few years while still working. So you can correct mistakes before you retire.
Step 4. Download a benefit verification letter
If you currently receive Social Security benefits and need proof of your income for an application (housing, Medicaid, loan, etc.), tap "Get a Benefit Verification Letter." You can download a PDF letter instantly showing your current monthly benefit amount. This replaces the old process of calling and waiting for a letter to arrive by mail.
Step 5. Update direct deposit or address
Under your account settings or "My Profile," you can change your direct deposit bank account or update your mailing address. Changes usually take effect within 30 days. For direct deposit changes, Social Security will send a confirmation letter to your address on file.
The Social Security Administration runs an online portal called "my Social Security." There you can see your future benefit estimate, and review your lifetime earnings record, which sets your benefit amount. You can also update your personal information, and manage your benefits if you're already receiving them, all without waiting on hold.
If you're still working, seeing your estimated benefit at different retirement ages helps you plan ahead. If you're already receiving benefits, you can pull up your benefit verification letter, update your direct deposit, and change your address. Using the site online saves a lot of time compared to calling or visiting a Social Security office.
Official sources
- Medicare.gov — medicare.gov
- SSA.gov — ssa.gov
- IRS.gov — irs.gov
- USA.gov — usa.gov
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