Your Social Security statement shows how much you’ve earned over your working life and how much you can expect in retirement, disability and survivor benefits. You can see it any time, for free, through a my Social Security account. Checking it once a year can catch costly earnings mistakes before they shrink your benefits.
Quick answer
- Go to ssa.gov/myaccount (type it yourself).
- Sign in with Login.gov or ID.me; you can create an account if you don’t have one.
- Open your Social Security Statement to see your earnings record and benefit estimates.
- It’s free; Social Security never charges to access your statement.
📱 Short on time? Swipe through the 1-minute Web Story version.
How to create your my Social Security account
- Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and choose to sign in or create an account.
- Create or use a Login.gov or ID.me account and verify your identity.
- Link it to your Social Security record by answering the questions shown.
- Turn on the strongest sign-in protection offered and keep your recovery details current.
What to check on your statement
| Section | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Earnings record | Missing or wrong earnings can lower your future benefit; compare with your W-2s |
| Retirement estimates | Shows estimated monthly benefits at different claiming ages |
| Disability and survivor estimates | Shows what you or your family could get |
| Medicare information | Shows whether you have enough work credits |
Found a mistake in your earnings?
Gather proof such as W-2s, tax returns or pay stubs and contact Social Security to correct it. Fixing errors early is easier than years later, when records can be harder to find.
Other things you can do online
- Get a benefit verification letter.
- Download your SSA-1099 tax form if you receive benefits.
- Change your address or direct deposit if you get benefits.
- Request a replacement Social Security card in many cases.
⚠️ Social Security won’t call, text or email to threaten you, suspend your number or demand payment by gift card, wire transfer or crypto. Hang up and report impostor scams to the SSA Office of the Inspector General.
Frequently asked questions
How do I see my Social Security statement online?
Sign in at ssa.gov/myaccount using Login.gov or ID.me, then open your Social Security Statement.
Is a my Social Security account free?
Yes. It’s free, and Social Security never charges to view your statement.
How often should I check my Social Security statement?
At least once a year, to make sure your earnings are recorded correctly.
What if my earnings are wrong?
Gather W-2s or tax records and contact Social Security to correct your record.
More Social Security and money guides
Last reviewed: October 16, 2026.
