Washington, D.C. — Millions of Social Security beneficiaries could face payment disruptions if they don’t take action to update their accounts as part of a nationwide security overhaul, according to a new directive from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
In an effort to protect users from identity theft and modernize online access, the SSA is requiring certain account holders to switch to a new government login system—Login.gov—by a fast-approaching deadline. Those who fail to comply risk losing access to critical services and, more importantly, seeing their monthly Social Security checks paused until the account is updated.
Who Is Affected
This mandatory transition affects anyone who created a My Social Security account before September 18, 2021 and has not yet linked it with Login.gov. The SSA has been sending out official notices urging users to make the switch as soon as possible.
If you received one of these notices, it means action is required. Users who do not complete the process will no longer be able to:
- View or manage Social Security benefits online
- Request replacement Social Security cards
- Track application statuses
- Estimate future benefits
- Update personal details
Most critically, benefit payments may be suspended until the account is brought into compliance.
Why the Change?
The move is part of a larger federal push to strengthen cybersecurity across public platforms, especially those used by seniors and people with disabilities. Login.gov, already used by multiple federal agencies, offers enhanced protection against fraud and simplifies access to government services through one secure sign-on.
According to SSA officials, the switch will not only increase account safety but also reduce wait times, which now average around 36 minutes for certain services.
How to Update Your Account
To avoid disruptions, users should take the following steps:
- Go to www.ssa.gov
- Click on “Sign In” and select the option to link or migrate your account to Login.gov
- Create new credentials or link an existing Login.gov account
- Verify your identity using approved documents
- Watch for a confirmation email from an official “.gov” address
- Sign in again to confirm the update was successful
The SSA is also reminding users to be on high alert for phishing scams. Any communications should come from verified government domains and begin with https:// to ensure authenticity.
Final April Payment Reminder
In addition to the account update, the SSA confirmed that the final round of April Social Security payments will be sent out on Wednesday, April 23. This payment will go to retirees and beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month. Those affected are advised to double-check their online account access before that date to ensure their payment isn’t delayed by the account migration.
For more information or to get started, visit the official SSA website.