Social Security Digital Access: What You Can Do Online in 2025

The rise of Social Security digital access has transformed how Americans interact with the Social Security Administration (SSA). 

Whether you need to view your Social Security number, check benefit payments, or request a replacement card, many services are now available online. 

What is Social Security digital access?

Social Security digital access refers to the ability to manage many Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) matters over the internet through a secure online portal called my Social Security. 

Through digital access, you can view your record, apply for benefits, request documents, or display your Social Security number securely, rather than relying on paper forms or in-person visits. 

The SSA introduced a digital SSN feature allowing account holders to securely display their SSN online, reducing the need for a physical card.

What services does Social Security digital access provide?

With Social Security digital access, you can do a range of tasks via your my Social Security account:

1. Review your earnings history and Social Security Statement
2. Apply for retirement, disability, or Medicare benefits online
3. Request a replacement Social Security card in many locations
4. Print benefit verification letters or your SSA-1099 tax form
5. Update address or direct deposit information
6. Use the digital SSN feature to securely view your Social Security number when needed

These functions extend Social Security digital access beyond simply viewing basic data; many traditional paper tasks can now be done online.

How do you log in via Social Security digital access?

To use Social Security digital access, you need a valid online credential. 

As of June 7, 2025, SSA no longer allows use of older Social Security usernames and passwords. 

Instead, access is only through Login.gov or ID.me.

• Login.gov is a general government credential system used by multiple federal agencies.
• ID.me is a specialized identity proofing and authentication service meeting federal requirements.

If you already have one of those accounts, you can link it to your my Social Security account. If not, you must create one.

What security measures protect Social Security digital access?

Social Security digital access is protected using multiple layers of security:

1. Two-factor or multi-factor authentication (MFA), often via phone, security key, or backup codes
2. Strict identity proofing before giving access to sensitive features like the digital SSN display
3. Encryption of communications and secured portal infrastructure
4. The SSA encourages users to manage their account security settings and monitor for unusual activity

These measures help ensure that Social Security digital access is not only convenient but safe.

Who qualifies for Social Security digital access?

Most individuals with a valid Social Security number (SSN) and 18 years or older can create a my Social Security account to use Social Security digital access.

Some features may not be available to everyone, depending on your state and whether the SSA offers the digital card option locally.

If you receive benefits (Social Security or SSI), you will generally have access to more features, such as benefit statements, changing deposit information, or printing tax documents.

What are the limitations of Social Security digital access?

While Social Security digital access offers many services, limits remain:

1. Some states do not allow digital replacement of Social Security cards; you may still need to visit a local office.
2. Identity proofing limitations may block some users from accessing sensitive functions until additional verification is completed.
3. The system requires reliable internet access and compatible devices; those with limited connectivity may face difficulty.
4. If your account is locked out (e.g., due to failed logins), SSA may require in-person proof.
5. Older “Social Security username/password” accounts are no longer valid, so users must move to the new credential systems.

These constraints show that Social Security digital access is powerful but not universally seamless.

What should you do if your Social Security digital access is not working?

If you run into problems with Social Security digital access:

1. First check that you are using Login.gov or ID.me—the old username/password method is no longer accepted.
2. Clear your browser cache, try using a different browser or device.
3. If you can’t verify identity online, you may need to visit a local SSA office for in-person proof.
4. For login issues with Login.gov or ID.me, contact their support lines.
5. If you suspect unauthorized access, contact the SSA immediately at 1-800-772-1213 and consider freezing the account.
6. Check the SSA’s “Account Transition” FAQs and help pages for instructions.