Check the starting requirements

SSA says you must be at least 18 and have a valid email address to create a personal account. Use your own email address: the current account FAQ says each customer needs a unique account and email address, including spouses. Creating online access does not apply for benefits or change an existing claim by itself.

Choose the provider from SSA’s page

SSA’s current choices are Login.gov and ID.me. Its comparison explains the identity and device information used by each. If you already have an account with a supported provider, use the existing-account instructions rather than assuming a separate new login is required for SSA. People with a foreign mailing address should follow SSA’s international ID.me guidance.

Complete verification on the official route

Follow the selected provider’s prompts after starting through SSA.gov. Identity verification and the sign-in service are part of obtaining access to your official account. Do not enter those details into this independent directory. Your account password and authentication codes are also not information to send to someone offering to help through this site.

Plan a usable authentication method

Review the provider’s available authentication choices before relying on a particular phone or device. SSA’s FAQ addresses shared phones and alternatives for people without a mobile phone, including provider-specific options. The right route depends on the provider and situation; not having a personal smartphone is not a reason to follow an unofficial workaround or share another person’s account.

Confirm access, then choose the task

After the provider verifies your identity, SSA’s account-creation guidance explains that you can access my Social Security. Choose the service you actually need and read any task-specific requirements. If account creation fails, use SSA’s account-help page and the provider’s official help links. SSA’s online-services page also describes telephone help for account creation; avoid repeatedly creating accounts to solve an unresolved verification issue.

Common questions

Must I create both a Login.gov and an ID.me account?

No. SSA says both providers are supported; having both is not required. Follow its instructions for your circumstances.

Can my spouse and I share one personal account?

SSA’s FAQ says each customer needs a unique account and email address. Do not share personal account access.

Related guides

Official sources

Source pages reviewed November 2, 2026. How this guidance is reviewed. Guidance and eligibility can change. Follow the live official service instructions for your circumstances.