How to update your bank account information with Social Security
Social Security will deposit your benefits to whatever bank account you tell them to use. If you want to change that account—because you switched banks, closed an account, or need deposits to go somewhere else—you contact Social Security directly, not your bank. The process takes a few minutes by phone or online, and the change usually takes effect within one or two pay cycles.
You do not need to visit a Social Security office in person. You can make the change through your Social Security account online, by calling Social Security's main line, or by visiting an office if you prefer. The key is that Social Security needs your new account number and routing number before they can redirect your deposits.
Key Takeaways
- Contact Social Security directly to change your bank account, not your bank—Social Security controls where your benefits go.
- You will need your new bank's routing number and your new account number, both of which your bank can provide in seconds.
- The fastest route is online through your my Social Security account, which processes changes immediately and shows confirmation on screen.
- If you call Social Security, the change takes effect within one or two pay cycles; if you visit an office, bring a recent bank statement or deposit slip showing your new account details.
- If your old account closes before Social Security processes the change, your deposit may be returned and you will need to contact Social Security to resubmit.
Change your account online through my Social Security
The fastest way is through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. Log in with your username and password (or create an account if you do not have one). Once logged in, look for "Manage Your Benefits" or a similar option in the main menu, then find the section for direct deposit or payment information.
Click to edit your bank account details. You will enter your new routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and your new account number. Your bank can give you both in seconds—call their customer service line, log into your online banking, or ask at a branch. Once you enter both numbers and confirm, Social Security will show you a confirmation screen. The change takes effect immediately in the system, though your next deposit may still go to your old account if it has already been processed.
If you do not have a my Social Security account, you can create one at ssa.gov using your email, Social Security number, and a few security questions. The account takes a few minutes to set up and gives you access to your earnings record and payment information anytime.
Change your account by phone
Call Social Security's main customer service line at 1-800-772-1213. Have your new bank's routing number and account number ready before you call. Tell the representative you want to update your direct deposit information. They will ask you to verify your identity (usually your Social Security number and date of birth) and then record your new account details.
The representative will read back the information to confirm it is correct before ending the call. The change takes effect within one or two pay cycles, meaning your next one or two deposits may still go to your old account. Ask the representative when you should expect the first deposit to your new account so you know what to watch for.
Wait times vary by time of day and season. Early morning or mid-week calls tend to be faster. If you reach a busy signal, try again later rather than staying on hold for a long time.
Change your account in person at a Social Security office
Visit your local Social Security office with a recent bank statement or deposit slip showing your new account number and routing number. Bring your Social Security card and a photo ID. The staff member will update your information on the spot and give you a receipt showing the change was made.
In-person changes also take effect within one or two pay cycles. This route is useful if you are uncomfortable sharing your account number over the phone or online, or if you have questions the representative can answer face-to-face. Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator.
What happens if your old account closes before the change takes effect
If you close your old bank account before Social Security processes the change, your next deposit will be returned by the bank. Social Security will then hold the payment and send you a notice explaining what happened. You will need to contact Social Security again to resubmit your new account information and request that the payment be reissued to the correct account.
This can delay your payment by several weeks. To avoid this, wait until after your first deposit arrives in your new account before closing your old account. If you are switching banks on the same day, update Social Security first, then wait for one full pay cycle before closing the old account.
Information you will need to have ready
Before you contact Social Security, gather these details from your new bank:
- Routing number: A nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank. It appears on the bottom left of your checks, or you can call your bank's customer service line and ask for it.
- Account number: The number of the specific account where you want deposits to go. It appears on your checks, your bank statement, or in your online banking portal.
- Account type: Whether the account is a checking or savings account. Social Security needs to know which one.
You do not need to bring your old account information—Social Security only needs the new account details. If you are not sure whether you have the routing number correct, call your bank before contacting Social Security. A wrong routing number will send your payment to the wrong bank, and it can take weeks to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the change to show up?
The change takes effect in Social Security's system immediately if you make it online, or within one business day if you call or visit an office. However, your next deposit may still go to your old account if it has already been scheduled. Most people see the first deposit in their new account within one or two pay cycles.
What if I enter the wrong account number?
Your deposit will go to the wrong account at the wrong bank. Contact Social Security as soon as you realize the mistake and provide the correct information. They will update your account and reissue the payment to the right place, but this can take several weeks. Double-check the routing number and account number with your bank before submitting them to Social Security.
Can I change my account if I receive SSI instead of Social Security retirement or disability?
Yes, the process is the same whether you receive Social Security retirement, disability, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Use the same methods—online, phone, or in person—and have your new routing and account numbers ready.
Do I need to tell my bank that Social Security will be depositing money there?
No. Your bank does not need advance notice. Once Social Security starts depositing to the account, the deposits will arrive automatically. If your bank flags the deposits as unusual, contact them to confirm the account is yours, but this is rare.
What if I do not have a bank account yet?
You will need to open one before you can change your Social Security direct deposit. Once you have the routing number and account number from your new bank, follow the steps above to update Social Security. If you do not have a bank account and cannot open one, contact your local Social Security office to discuss payment options.