What to do when you can't log into your Social Security account
If you're locked out of your Social Security account or seeing an error message, the fastest fix depends on which error you're seeing. Most login problems fall into a few categories: a forgotten password, a locked account after too many wrong attempts, trouble with two-factor authentication, or a browser issue. Before you call, try the steps below in order — many people regain access within minutes without speaking to anyone.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs a website called my Social Security (my.ssa.gov) where you can view your earnings record, check benefit estimates, and manage your account. When something goes wrong at login, the site usually tells you what happened. Read that message carefully — it often points you toward the exact next step.
Key Takeaways
- Most login errors are caused by a forgotten password, a locked account, or browser cookies — all fixable without calling the SSA.
- If you see "too many login attempts," wait at least one hour before trying again; the account unlocks automatically.
- Two-factor authentication errors often clear when you request a new code or try a different phone number on file.
- Clearing your browser's cache and cookies, or switching to a different browser, solves many errors that look like account problems.
- If you cannot reset your password or unlock your account online, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) during business hours.
Resetting your password when you're locked out
If you remember your username but not your password, go to my.ssa.gov and click "Forgot your password?" on the login page. The site will ask you to enter your username, then verify your identity by answering security questions you set up when you created the account. If you answer correctly, you'll be taken to a page where you can create a new password.
Your new password must be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and at least one special character (like ! or @). Write it down somewhere safe, or use a password manager to store it. After you set the new password, return to the login page and try again with your username and the new password.
If you don't remember the answers to your security questions, you cannot reset your password online. In that case, skip to the phone number at the end of this article.
Unlocking your account after too many failed login attempts
If you see a message saying your account is locked or that you've had too many login attempts, the SSA has temporarily blocked access to protect your account. This usually happens after three to five wrong password entries, depending on the system. The account unlocks automatically after one hour — you don't need to do anything except wait.
While you wait, double-check your password. Make sure Caps Lock is not on, and that you're not accidentally including a space before or after your username. If you're still not sure of your password, use the "Forgot your password?" link described above. After one hour has passed, try logging in again with the correct information.
Fixing two-factor authentication errors
Two-factor authentication adds a second security step: after you enter your password, the SSA sends a code to your phone (by text or call) or to an authentication app. You then enter that code to finish logging in. If you're not receiving the code, or if you're entering it and getting an error, try these steps in order.
First, request a new code. Wait a few minutes and check your phone for a text message or listen for a call. If you still don't see it, check that the phone number on file with Social Security is correct — you may have changed your number since you set up the account. If the number is wrong, you'll need to call the SSA to update it before you can receive codes.
If the code arrives but you're getting an error when you enter it, make sure you're typing it exactly as shown, with no extra spaces. Codes usually expire after 10 minutes, so if you wait too long, request a new one. If you have an authentication app set up (like Google Authenticator), try using the app instead of the text message option — sometimes one method works when the other doesn't.
Clearing your browser to fix errors that aren't account problems
Sometimes the error is not with your account but with your browser's stored data. Cached files and cookies can become outdated or corrupted, causing login pages to behave strangely. Before you assume your account is broken, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies.
In most browsers, you can do this by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Windows) or Command+Shift+Delete (Mac). A window will open asking what you want to clear. Select "Cookies and cached images and files" and choose "All time" for the date range. Click the clear button, then close the browser completely and open it again. Go back to my.ssa.gov and try logging in.
If clearing the cache doesn't work, try a different browser altogether. If you usually use Chrome, try Firefox or Safari. If the login works in a different browser, the problem was with your original browser, not your account. You can then continue using the new browser or troubleshoot your original browser later.
Checking for phishing and account security issues
Before you assume your login error is a technical glitch, make sure you're on the real Social Security website. Scammers sometimes create fake login pages that look almost identical to the real one. The real website is always my.ssa.gov — check the address bar carefully. If you clicked a link in an email or text message to get to the login page, go directly to my.ssa.gov instead by typing it into your browser yourself.
If you're worried that someone else has accessed your account, or if you see activity you don't recognize, call the SSA when ready at 1-800-772-1213. Do not try to log in again — each attempt may trigger additional security locks. The SSA can review your account activity and help you find it.
Contacting Social Security when you need help
If none of the steps above work, or if you're unable to reset your password because you don't remember your security questions, you'll need to speak with someone at the SSA. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing). The phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.
Have your Social Security number ready when you call. Be prepared to answer questions to verify your identity — the SSA may ask for your date of birth, mother's maiden name, or other personal information. Tell them exactly what error message you're seeing and what steps you've already tried. They can unlock your account, reset your security questions, or help you set up two-factor authentication with a different phone number.
If you have trouble hearing or speaking, or if you prefer not to call, you can visit a local Social Security office in person. Find the office nearest you at ssa.gov/locator. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to regain access after my account is locked?
If your account is locked due to too many login attempts, it unlocks automatically after one hour. You don't need to do anything — just wait and try again. If you're locked out for a different reason, the time varies. A password reset can happen when ready, but if you need SSA staff to help, it may take a few business days.
Can I log in using my email address instead of my username?
No. my.ssa.gov requires your username to log in, not your email address. Your username is the one you created when you set up your account — it's usually different from your email. If you don't remember your username, call 1-800-772-1213 and the SSA can help you find it.
What if I never created a my Social Security account?
You can create one at any time by going to my.ssa.gov and clicking "Create an account." You'll need to verify your identity by answering questions about your Social Security number, date of birth, and other personal information. The process usually takes about 10 minutes. If you have trouble creating an account, call 1-800-772-1213.
Is it safe to use my Social Security account on my phone?
Yes. my.ssa.gov works on phones and tablets. Make sure you're using the official website (my.ssa.gov) and not an app, unless it's an app you downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Never log in through a link in a text message or email — always type the address into your browser yourself.
What should I do if I think someone else logged into my account?
Call 1-800-772-1213 right away. Do not try to log in again, as this may trigger more security locks. The SSA can review who accessed your account and when, and they can help you find it. They may also recommend steps to protect your Social Security number from identity theft.