The Social Security Administration is transitioning to a new login system starting in September. Everyone who set up their Social Security accounts before September 2021 will need to log in with their username and password and follow the prompts to switch to a Login.gov account. The agency is making the changes to simplify the sign-in experience and align with federal authentication standards while providing safe and secure access to online services. People who already have a Login.gov account do not need to take any action.
This would be a good opportunity to talk to all clients about Social Security and the importance of establishing an online account. Clients of all ages can use it to track their earnings history and get an estimate of their future benefits. Clients who are currently receiving Social Security can use it to access their benefit verification letter for loan applications or other purposes, to change their address or direct deposit information, and to sign up for email or text alerts whenever a notice is available. Getting notices online means not needing to wait for it to arrive in the mail or the notice getting lost, misplaced, or stolen.
Having a Social Security account can also prevent fraud and identity theft, as only one account can be set up for each Social Security number. Once a person sets up their own Social Security account, it would be impossible for an imposter to set one up with the same number.
Read the SSA press release here.