Start with the agency's official website, not a third-party site
Most government benefit programs—Social Security, IRS, state unemployment, state tax portals—require you to create an account directly on their official website. The safest way to find the right site is to search "[program name] official website" or go to the agency's main domain (irs.gov, ssa.gov, your state's labor department site). Do not use a link from an email or text message unless you initiated contact with that agency first.
Each agency has its own account system. A Social Security account does not work for the IRS. A state unemployment account does not work for your state tax refund portal. You will need separate accounts for each one. Write down the username and password you create for each, or use a password manager to store them securely.
Key Takeaways
- Create accounts only on the official government website for that specific agency, never through a third-party site or link from an unsolicited email.
- You will need a separate account for each program—Social Security, IRS, state unemployment, and state tax portals all have different login systems.
- Most accounts require an email address, a password you create, and identity verification using a Social Security number or tax ID.
- Identity verification may happen immediately online or take a few days if the agency needs to mail you a code or call you to confirm.
- Once your account is set up, you can check refund status, view payment history, and update your address or bank information without calling.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin creating an account. You will need a valid email address that you check regularly—this is where the agency will send password reset links and important notices. You will also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), depending on the program. Some programs ask for your date of birth, driver's license number, or state ID number as well.
Have your phone number ready. Many agencies send a one-time code to your phone as a security step during account creation. If you do not have a phone number on file with the agency, you may be asked to provide one before you can finish setting up your account. Some programs also let you use an authenticator app instead of a text message code, which is more secure if you have one installed.
The basic steps to create an account
Go to the official website and look for a button that says "Create Account," "Sign Up," "Register," or "New User." Click it. You will be asked to enter your email address and create a password. The password usually must be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character like ! or @. Write it down or save it in a password manager immediately—you will need it every time you log in.
Next, you will enter your Social Security number or ITIN and other identifying information. The agency will ask you to verify your identity. This step varies by program. Some agencies verify you instantly using information they already have on file. Others send a code to your email or phone that you enter to confirm you own that email address or phone number. A few agencies mail a verification code to your address on file, which takes five to ten business days.
Once identity verification is complete, your account is active. You can log in using your email address and password. Save the login page in your browser bookmarks so you do not accidentally click a phishing link next time.
Identity verification methods vary by agency
The IRS uses an online verification system called ID.me. When you create an IRS account, you will be asked to verify your identity through ID.me, which checks your information against IRS records in real time. This usually takes a few minutes. If ID.me cannot verify you immediately, you can upload a photo of your driver's license or passport, which takes one to two business days to review.
Social Security uses a different system. You create your account on ssa.gov, and Social Security verifies your identity by checking information they already have. If you have a Social Security account already, you may be able to log in right away. If not, Social Security may mail you a verification code to your address on file.
State unemployment and state tax portals each have their own verification process. Some use ID.me as well. Others send a code to your phone or email. A few states still mail a PIN to your address. Check the specific agency's website for which method they use—this information is usually on the account creation page or in their FAQ section.
What to do if verification gets stuck
If the agency cannot verify your identity online, you will usually see a message telling you what to do next. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name or address you entered and what the agency has on file, or a recent move that has not updated in their system yet. If this happens, check that you entered your information exactly as it appears on your Social Security card or tax return—middle initials, hyphens, and spelling all matter.
If you still cannot verify after checking your information, contact the agency directly. Look for a phone number on the website or in the error message. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a recent piece of mail with your address ready. The agency can manually verify your identity over the phone, which usually takes a few minutes. Once verified, you can finish creating your account.
Keeping your account secure after creation
Once your account is active, do not share your password with anyone, including family members or agency staff. Government agencies never ask for your password by email or phone. If someone contacts you claiming to be from the agency and asks for your password, it is a scam—hang up or delete the message.
Enable two-factor authentication if the agency offers it. This means you will need to enter a code sent to your phone or email every time you log in from a new device. It takes an extra 30 seconds but makes your account much harder to hack. Check your account settings for a security or two-factor authentication option.
Update your email address and phone number if either one changes. Log into your account, find the settings or profile section, and update your contact information. This ensures you receive important notices and can reset your password if you forget it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I create an account if I do not have a phone number?
Most agencies allow you to use an email address instead of a phone number for verification. During account creation, look for an option to "verify by email" or "use email instead." If the agency requires a phone number and you do not have one, call their customer service line and ask if they can verify you another way, such as by mail.
What if I forget my password?
Go to the login page and click "Forgot Password" or "Reset Password." Enter your email address. The agency will send a password reset link to your email. Click the link and create a new password. If you do not receive the email within a few minutes, check your spam folder. If it is not there, call the agency's customer service line.
Do I need a different account for my spouse or dependent?
Yes. Each person needs their own account with their own Social Security number and email address. A spouse or dependent cannot use your login to view their own information. They must create a separate account on the same website using their own credentials.
Is it safe to create an account on a government website?
Official government websites use encryption to protect your information. The risk comes from fake websites that look like government sites. Always type the official web address directly into your browser or search for "[agency name] official website." Do not click links in emails or texts unless you initiated contact with that agency first.
How long does it take to create an account?
If verification happens instantly, account creation takes five to ten minutes. If the agency needs to mail you a verification code, the whole process takes five to ten business days. If you need to upload a photo of your ID, it usually takes one to two business days for the agency to review it.