You can change your Social Security direct deposit account through the Social Security Administration website, by phone, or in person at a local office

Social Security lets you change which bank account receives your payment at any time. The fastest way is through your my Social Security account online — you can update your bank details in minutes and the change usually takes effect within one or two payment cycles. If you do not have an online account or prefer to speak with someone, you can call Social Security directly or visit an office in your area.

The key thing to know is that Social Security needs your new account number and routing number before they can switch your deposit. You will find both on a blank check from your new bank, or you can call the bank and ask for them. Social Security will not move your money until they have confirmed the new account details are correct.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your direct deposit account online through my Social Security, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local Social Security office in person.
  • You will need your new bank's routing number and your new account number, both of which appear on a blank check or are available by calling your bank.
  • Changes made online or by phone usually take effect within one or two payment cycles, though Social Security recommends allowing up to two weeks.
  • If you are switching banks because your old account is closed or compromised, tell Social Security right away so they do not attempt to deposit into a dead account.

Changing your account online through my Social Security

The online route is the fastest if you already have a my Social Security account. Log in at ssa.gov/myaccount, select "Manage your benefits," then look for the option to change your direct deposit information. You will be asked to enter your new routing number and account number, and Social Security will ask you to confirm the bank name and the last four digits of the account number before saving the change.

If you do not yet have a my Social Security account, you can create one at the same website. You will need your Social Security number, a valid email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a driver's license, state ID, or passport. Creating the account takes about 10 minutes, and then you can make the change right away.

After you submit the change online, Social Security sends a confirmation email to the address on file. Keep that email. Your new bank account should start receiving deposits within one or two payment cycles, though Social Security recommends waiting up to two weeks before assuming something went wrong.

Changing your account by phone

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Have your new routing number and account number ready before you call. The representative will ask you to confirm your identity, then will update your direct deposit information in the system while you are on the phone.

Phone lines are typically less busy early in the morning or on weekdays after 3 p.m. If you reach a busy signal, you can request a callback instead of waiting on hold — Social Security will call you back within 24 hours during business hours.

Changing your account in person at a Social Security office

You can walk into any Social Security office and ask to update your direct deposit. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it. The staff member will ask for your new routing number and account number, update your file, and give you a receipt showing the change was made.

To find your nearest office, go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code. Many offices now ask you to schedule an appointment online rather than walk in, so check the office website before you go. If you cannot get an appointment soon, calling is usually faster.

Where to find your routing number and account number

The simplest way is to look at a blank check from your new bank. The routing number is the nine-digit code on the left side of the bottom of the check. The account number is the longer code in the middle of the bottom. Both are printed in magnetic ink.

If you do not have checks, call your bank's customer service line and ask for your routing number and account number. You can also log into your bank's website or app — many banks display both numbers in the account details section. Some banks print them on statements as well.

Make sure you have the right routing number for your specific branch. Some large banks have different routing numbers depending on which state or region your account is in. If you give Social Security the wrong routing number, your deposit will go to the wrong bank, and it can take weeks to recover the money.

What happens if your old bank account is closed or compromised

If your bank account is closed and Social Security tries to deposit into it, the bank will reject the deposit and send the money back to Social Security. This can delay your payment by several days. If this happens, contact Social Security right away and provide your new account information so they can reissue the payment to the correct account.

If your account has been compromised or you suspect fraud, change your direct deposit account when ready and then contact your bank to report the problem. Social Security can only control where the money goes — they cannot stop a fraudster who already has access to your old account. Your bank is the one who can freeze the account and investigate unauthorized withdrawals.

How long the change takes to go into effect

Social Security processes direct deposit changes within one or two payment cycles. Since most people receive payments on the 3rd, 4th, 10th, 13th, 20th, 21st, or 31st of each month depending on their birth date, your new account should be receiving deposits by your next scheduled payment date or the one after that.

Social Security recommends waiting up to two weeks before contacting them about a change that has not appeared yet. If two weeks have passed and you still have not received a deposit in your new account, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask them to check the status of your change. Have your new account number ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my direct deposit account if I do not have a bank account yet?

No. Social Security requires an active bank account with a routing number and account number before they can set up direct deposit. If you are opening a new account, wait until the account is fully open and you have received your debit card or checks before you contact Social Security with the new information.

What if I enter the wrong routing number or account number?

Social Security will send your payment to whatever account the routing and account numbers point to. If those numbers belong to a different bank or account, your money will go there instead. Contact Social Security when ready and provide the correct information. They can reissue the payment, but it may take several days to recover.

Do I need to tell my old bank that Social Security is switching accounts?

No. Once Social Security stops sending deposits to your old account, you do not need to do anything with that bank. If you want to close the old account, you can do that anytime after you confirm that Social Security has started depositing into the new one.

Can someone else change my direct deposit account for me?

Only if they have power of attorney or are a representative payee appointed by Social Security. Otherwise, you must make the change yourself. This is a security measure to prevent fraud. If you cannot visit an office or use the phone, ask a trusted family member to help you make the call while you are present.

What if I am receiving benefits for multiple people in my household?

Each person's direct deposit account is separate. If you are a representative payee for a child or spouse, you can change their account information through my Social Security (if you have access to their account) or by calling Social Security and providing their Social Security number along with the new account details.