What the SSDI App Does and Who Can Use It

The Social Security Administration offers a mobile app called my Social Security that lets you view your SSDI account information, check payment history, and update certain details without calling or visiting an office. The app works on both iPhone and Android phones. You do not need to be receiving SSDI yet to read it — you can create an account to track your claim status while it is being reviewed.

The app is free and connects directly to your official Social Security account. When you log in, you see the same information that Social Security has on file for you. This means changes you make in the app — like updating your address or phone number — go straight into the system and do not require a separate paper form.

You will need a Social Security number and a way to verify your identity to set up an account. Social Security offers several verification methods, including uploading a photo ID or using a third-party service like ID.me. The verification step takes a few minutes and happens only once.

Key Takeaways

  • The my Social Security app lets you check your SSDI payment amount, payment history, and current account status from your phone at any time.
  • You can update your address, phone number, and email in the app, and these changes take effect when ready in Social Security's records.
  • The app does not let you file a new SSDI claim or appeal a denial — those still require a phone call, online form, or in-person visit.
  • You must verify your identity once when you first set up the app, using either a photo ID or a third-party verification service.
  • If you forget your password or lose access to your phone, you can reset your account through the app's login screen without contacting Social Security.

How to read and Set Up Your Account

Search for "my Social Security" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and read the official app published by the Social Security Administration. Open the app and tap "Create an account." You will be asked for your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address.

Next, you will choose a username and password. Your password must be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character (like ! or #). Write this down somewhere safe — you will need it to log in each time.

Social Security will then ask you to verify your identity. You have two main options: upload a photo of your driver's license or state ID, or use ID.me, a third-party verification service. If you choose the photo ID route, take a clear picture of the front and back of your ID and upload both. The verification usually completes within a few minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours.

Once verified, you will see your account dashboard. This is where you can view your payment information, check your earnings record, and update your contact details.

What Information You Can View in the App

After you log in, the app shows your current monthly SSDI payment amount at the top of the screen. Below that, you can see a list of all payments Social Security has sent you, organized by date. Each payment entry shows the amount and the date it was deposited to your bank account.

The app also displays your earnings record — a year-by-year breakdown of the wages Social Security has on file for you. This record is used to calculate your SSDI benefit amount, so it is important to check it for errors. If you spot a mistake, the app will direct you to contact Social Security directly to correct it.

You can also view your current contact information as Social Security has it recorded: your address, phone number, and email. If any of this is wrong, you can update it right in the app without making a phone call.

The app does not show details about ongoing appeals, pending decisions on new claims, or work-related questions. For those topics, you will need to call Social Security or log into their website.

Updating Your Address, Phone Number, and Email

To change your address, open the app and tap the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines). Select "Profile" or "Account Settings" — the exact label depends on your phone's operating system. Tap "Edit" next to your address field and enter your new address. Tap "Save" when you are done.

The same process works for your phone number and email. These changes take effect when ready and are sent to Social Security's main database. You do not need to call or fill out a form — the app handles it all.

If you move and do not update your address, Social Security may send important notices to your old address and you might miss them. Updating in the app is the fastest way to make sure Social Security knows where to reach you.

If you need to change your name, date of birth, or Social Security number, the app will not let you do that — those changes require you to contact Social Security directly by phone or in person.

What You Cannot Do in the App

The app is designed for viewing information and making minor updates, not for major account actions. You cannot file a new SSDI claim in the app. You also cannot appeal a claim denial, request a hearing, or submit medical evidence. Those processes require you to use Social Security's website, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local Social Security office in person.

You cannot report a change in your work status or earnings in the app either. If you are working while receiving SSDI, you must report your wages to Social Security through their Ticket to Work program or by contacting them directly. Reporting through the app is not an option.

The app also does not let you change your direct deposit information, request a replacement Social Security card, or update your representative payee details. These actions must be done through the website or by phone.

Troubleshooting Login and Verification Problems

If you forget your password, tap "Forgot username or password?" on the app's login screen. Social Security will send you a link to reset it via email. Click the link, create a new password, and log in again. This process takes a few minutes and does not require you to contact Social Security.

If your identity verification fails, the app will tell you why — usually because the photo of your ID was blurry, the information did not match Social Security's records, or the upload did not go through. You can try again when ready. If you keep getting rejected, try the ID.me option instead, or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to verify your identity over the phone.

If the app crashes or freezes, close it completely and reopen it. If the problem continues, uninstall the app, restart your phone, and reinstall it from the app store. This usually fixes technical glitches.

If you lose access to the phone number or email address associated with your account, you will need to call Social Security to regain access. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready when you call.

Security and Privacy in the App

The my Social Security app uses encryption to protect your information, meaning your data is scrambled as it travels between your phone and Social Security's servers. Only you can log in to your account — Social Security employees cannot access it without your permission.

Do not share your username or password with anyone, including family members or people claiming to represent Social Security. Social Security will never ask you for your password by email, phone, or text message. If someone contacts you claiming to be from Social Security and asks for your password, it is a scam.

The app stores your login information on your phone, so if someone else uses your phone, they could potentially access your account. Lock your phone with a passcode or fingerprint, and log out of the app when you are done using it if you share your device with others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file an SSDI claim using the app?

No. The app only lets you view your account and make minor updates. To file a new SSDI claim, you must go to ssa.gov, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local Social Security office. The process process takes 20 to 30 minutes and cannot be done through the mobile app.

Will the app show me if my claim was approved or denied?

The app shows your current payment information if you are already receiving SSDI, but it does not display the status of a pending claim or a denial decision. You must check the website or call Social Security to find out about a claim decision.

What if I update my address in the app but Social Security sends mail to my old address anyway?

Changes made in the app usually take effect within one business day, but mail that was already in the system may still go to your old address. If you moved recently, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm they have your new address and to request that they resend any recent notices.

Is the app safe to use on public Wi-Fi?

The app encrypts your information, so it is safer than using a web browser on public Wi-Fi. However, for maximum security, use your phone's cellular data instead of public Wi-Fi when logging in. Never log in to your Social Security account on a shared computer.

Can I use the app if I do not have a smartphone?

No, the app only works on iPhones and Android phones. If you do not have a smartphone, you can manage your account on ssa.gov using a computer or tablet, or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative.