How to change Social Security direct deposit information

Start with the benefit-payment task

Changing direct deposit tells SSA where to send a benefit payment. It does not update your mailing address or replace your Social Security card. If those details also changed, deal with the contact-information task separately.

Open SSA’s current direct-deposit page and follow the account instructions. Depending on the type of benefit, the update may need to be completed by phone. If the online service cannot complete it, use the next steps it supplies rather than assuming the request went through.

Have the bank information ready

For the official change, be ready to identify the correct bank account. SSA’s direct-deposit interview instructions discuss routing and account information, including the old account when speaking with a representative.

Check the details against your bank’s records before entering them. Keep this information for the official SSA or bank process. The office directory does not need your account numbers to help you find a location.

Ask whether your bank offers enrollment

SSA says a bank can send updated direct-deposit information through Automated Enrollment, known as ENR. Not all banks offer this service. Ask your bank whether it can handle the change before arranging a separate office visit.

This is a service question for the financial institution, not an assurance that every account or benefit can be changed that way. If the bank cannot assist, return to SSA’s listed options.

Use phone or appointment help when needed

Call 1-800-772-1213 and say that you want to update direct deposit. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778. If you receive SSI or more than one kind of benefit, explain that so the representative can identify the appropriate route.

SSA’s page also links to appointment scheduling. If you use that route, follow its sign-in and scheduling instructions and confirm whether an office visit is required. Do not make a trip based only on an address found in a directory.

Check what happens after the request

Keep any confirmation and instructions about when the change will apply. Ask SSA or your bank how to handle the existing account while the update is pending. This guide does not promise a change will affect a particular payment or recommend closing an account on a fixed date.