A free and secure online account can be used to manage Social Security benefits. Account users can check their application status, request a replacement Social Security card, and view notices online. However, on July 12, 2024, the SSA announced that account users who created a my Social Security account before September 18, 2021, must transition to a different type of online account known as a Login.gov account. With a Login.gov account, an account user can continue to access the SSA’s online services.

The Reason for the Change

There have been many reasons articulated for the change, including simplification, compliance with federal standards, and security. The new Login.gov account sign-in experience should be easier for users to navigate and intends to modernize users’ online access across government agencies.

“my Social Security is a safe and secure way for people to do business with us,” Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley stated. “We’re excited to transition to Login.gov to access our online services, streamlining the process and ease of use for the public across agencies.”

How to Transition Your Account

To transition your account to Login.gov, sign in to your my Social Security account. Then, you will see a prompt to transition to a Login.gov account. After you follow the prompts, you should see a confirmation screen and should then have immediate access to all of the same SSA online services that you had access to before.

Is the Login.gov Notification a Scam?

No. The notice prompting users to transition to a Login.gov account from a my Social Security account is not a scam. It is a legitimate announcement from the SSA.

Help With Your Account

Although the SSA attempts to make the transition easy, if you encounter difficulties or have questions, you can access the 24/7 customer phone and chat support by visiting Help | Login.gov.

If you would like to speak with an experienced elder law attorney regarding your situation or have questions about something you have read, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 1 (800) 680-1717. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.