How to change direct deposit bank account for Social Security benefits online?

Yes, you can absolutely change your direct deposit information online through your MySocialSecurity account! I did this last year when I switched banks. Just log in, go to the 'Benefits & Payments' section, and look for the direct deposit information. You'll need your new account number and routing number ready. The change usually takes effect by the next payment cycle. Much easier than calling and dealing with the phone system.

be careful when u do this!! my brother changed his bank account last month and his payment went to NOWHERE. took him 3 weeks to get it fixed and he almost missed his rent. make sure u keep ur old account open til u see the new deposit happen!!!

I tried to do this online last month and the website kept giving me an error message. Something about "unable to process your request at this time." After trying for three days, I finally had to call. Spent 2.5 hours waiting and got disconnected TWICE. The SSA phone system is absolutely infuriating! When I finally got through, the agent told me there was a "freeze" on my account because of some identity verification issue that no one bothered to tell me about. So frustrating!

After spending 2 weeks trying to get through to SSA on the phone for a similar issue, I found this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real SSA agent in about 20 minutes. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked! You can see how it works in their demo video: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU. Their website is claimyr.com - they basically call SSA for you and when they get a real human, they connect you. Saved me hours of frustration when I needed to fix my direct deposit after my bank account was compromised.

I handle these changes for clients regularly as part of my job. Here's the correct information: 1. Yes, you can change direct deposit online through MySocialSecurity if you have a fully verified account 2. Changes made before the deposit cutoff date (usually 3 business days before payment date) will affect the next month's payment 3. Always keep your old account open until at least one payment posts to the new account 4. If the online system gives an error, it could be due to: - Fraud prevention measures if you've recently changed other account details - System maintenance (usually happens overnight) - Account verification issues If you get an error online, calling is your next option, but be prepared for long wait times.

my daughter had to do this and she said the website worked fine BUT make sure u have ur routing number right!!! she typed one number wrong and it took 6 weeks to get her money back!!!!

I'm actually going through this exact process right now! I switched from Bank of America to my local credit union last month. I changed my direct deposit information online through MySocialSecurity on the 10th, and my next payment is scheduled for the 2nd. The website was easy to use, but I called SSA anyway just to confirm the change went through (I'm paranoid about money stuff). Took forever to get through, but the agent confirmed my change was processed successfully. Like others said, definitely don't close your old account until you see a successful deposit!

i tried 2 do this and it was SOOO confusing!!!! ended up just going to the SS office in person. had to wait 3 hrs but at least got it done right

One important thing no one has mentioned: when you set up direct deposit to a new account, you should be aware that if there's ever an overpayment issue, the SSA has the right to withdraw funds from that account to recover the overpayment. Just something to keep in mind - it's in the fine print when you set up direct deposit. Not saying it will happen, but it's good to be aware.

Just a follow-up tip: After you make the change online, wait 1-2 business days and then call the SSA's automated system at 1-800-772-1213. Use the automated options to check your direct deposit information. This lets you verify the change was recorded correctly without having to speak to a representative. It's a good peace-of-mind check that doesn't require waiting on hold for hours.