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There are many reasons you might want to update your information with the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you ever change your name, marital status, or bank account, you’ll need to inform the SSA so they can send you the correct benefits. This includes whether you receive disability benefits.
Depending on your situation, the SSA encourages doing so online, but you can also do it over the phone or by mail. For big life changes, though, you’ll need to visit in person.
Key Takeaways
- Update the Social Security Administration whenever there are changes to your contact information, marital status, direct deposit details, employment status, citizenship, or immigration status.
- You can update most information online by registering for an account.
- Other information may be updated over the phone, by mail, or in person at an SSA office with supporting documents if required.
- For big changes, like immigration status, you’ll need to appear in person.
Changes You May Need to Make
The SSA needs to have the most updated and accurate information so it can pay you the correct benefits on time. Having the right personal details also helps the agency prevent fraud. The information you provide can also be used to verify your identity if you ever need to call the agency.
Make sure that you keep the SSA up-to-date if any of the following changes:
- Name (if legally changed because of marriage, divorce, or court decree)
- Contact information, including your current mailing address, phone number, and email address
- Employment status
- Marital status
- Direct deposit information
- Citizenship and immigration status, to determine your eligibility for benefits
In some cases, making a change will get you a new Social Security card, such as when you change your name or your immigration status.
If you receive supplemental security income, you also need to notify the agency of changes to your living arrangements and resources (bank accounts, life insurance, and investments), discharges from medical or other institutions, and other benefit payments you may receive. If you receive disability benefits, you must report any changes to your medical condition, hours worked, work expenses, and/or income sources within 10 days after the end of the month the change was made. Failure to report could result in penalties.
Important
The Social Security Administration may require two-factor authentication on your online account or ask you to visit an office to verify your identity.
How to Update Your Information
In most cases, you can change your information online. To do so, you’ll have to create a My Social Security account. This account is available for everyone, whether they receive benefits or not. The online system allows you to update your information, request a replacement card, check the status of an application, or manage your benefits.
You can also change most information over the phone, including contact information and direct deposit details. The contact number for the agency is 1-800-772-1213. Agents are available in most U.S. time zones between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday.
To make major changes, such as updating your immigration status, you’ll need to book an appointment to meet with a representative at a Social Security office. The SSA needs proof of your citizenship or legal residency (like your Green Card) and proof of identity, like a driver’s license or state-issued ID.
If you need to submit supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, driver’s license, or green card, they must be original and unexpired. The SSA also accepts certified copies with a raised seal, stamp, or signature.
The Bottom Line
To ensure that the SSA gives you the best service, make sure your information is current and up-to-date, whether that’s your contact information, banking details, or your immigration status.
In most cases, you can make changes online or over the phone. But for more complex changes, like a name change or naturalization, you may have to make an appointment and provide proof at an SSA office.
