Webpage updated April 14, 2025
Social Security is strengthening the process to prove identity related to direct deposit information. The easiest and most secure way is online with a personal my Social Security account. If someone cannot access their my Social Security account, then they will need to come into a Social Security office to prove their identity and update their information.
People will continue to receive their benefits on schedule to the bank account information in Social Security’s records without needing to prove identity.
Bad actors use other people’s personal information, often found on the dark web, to steal people’s money and identity. That information allows bad actors to get past antiquated knowledge-based questions. Social Security’s identity verification procedures prevent bad actors from stealing current and future benefits.
If you are not applying for benefits or changing direct deposit information for current benefits, there is no need to contact Social Security to prove identity.
People will continue to receive their benefits on schedule to the bank account information in Social Security’s records without needing to prove identity.
If changing direct deposit information for existing benefits, the most convenient and secure way to prove identity is with Social Security’s online services using a personal my Social Security account.
If unable to use Social Security’s online services, a person
- changing direct deposit information for any type of benefit must prove their identity in a Social Security office.
- receiving payment by paper check must visit a Social Security office before changing their mailing address.
It depends. You don’t need to visit Social Security:
- to prove your identity if you use a personal my Social Security account to change direct deposit information.
- if you are applying for benefits online or over the phone (unless your claim is flagged as a possible fraud risk).
- to continue receiving benefits to the bank account information in Social Security’s records.
- if you do not receive benefits.
You do need to visit a Social Security office:
- if you need to change direct deposit information and cannot do it online.
- if you apply for benefits by telephone and your claim is flagged as a potential fraud risk.
- if you use a paper application to apply for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary (Spouse or Child) benefits
No. You don’t need to contact Social Security if you don’t receive benefits.
No. You do not need to contact Social Security to continue your monthly benefits at your current bank. If you need to change your direct deposit information in the future, you can change that information online with a personal my Social Security account or automatic enrollment service through your bank.
Once you have created a personal my Social Security account, you don’t need to prove your identity online again to continue using Social Security’s convenient online services.
If you need to prove your identity in a local office for a reason explained on this webpage, and if you need to visit a local office again for assistance when proof of identity is required, you will need to prove your identity at that next visit.
Yes. You can create a personal my Social Security account to prove your identity one time and continue to use Social Security’s online services without proving your identity in person.
Our office locator service is available online at Social Security Office Locator. Customers who cannot use our website may call 1-800-772-1213 and we will assist you with finding a local office. Customers do not need an appointment if they are only changing their direct deposit information.
No. Social Security will never contact you by a text message to provide or confirm information about your identity. Ignore a text message like this if you receive one.