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How to update Direct Deposit for Social Security after bank account was hacked?

Just discovered my checking account was hacked yesterday and my identity might be compromised! The bank is closing that account and issuing me a new one with different account numbers. I'm panicking because my Social Security retirement payment ($2,175/month) is supposed to hit that account on the 3rd. How quickly can I change my direct deposit information with SSA? Can I do this online through my MySocialSecurity account or do I HAVE to call them? I tried calling this morning but gave up after being on hold for 2 hours. Would going to my local office be faster? This is really stressful since I have automatic bill payments set up...

Pedro Sawyer

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yes you can change direct deposit online! log into your mysocialsecurity account, click on Benefits & Payments section and look for the direct deposit option. I did mine online last year when I switched banks and it went through in about 5 days

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Gemma Andrews

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Thank you! Do you remember if there was any verification they sent before the change went through? I'm worried about timing since my payment is scheduled in 8 days.

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Mae Bennett

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Yes, you can update your direct deposit information through your MySocialSecurity account. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: 1. Direct deposit changes can take up to 7-10 business days to process 2. Since your payment is scheduled for the 3rd, you might want to contact SSA directly to expedite this 3. If you're concerned about identity theft, you should also place a block on your Social Security record as a precaution If you can't get through on the phone, visiting your local office might be faster in this situation. Make sure to bring your new account information and identification.

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what do you mean by 'place a block'? is that something different than just freezing your credit report? my mom had something similar happen last month.

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Melina Haruko

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This happened to me last summer! The online method only works if you still have access to your MySocialSecurity account. If you're worried your login credentials might be compromised, you should definitely visit your local office in person. Bring your ID, your new account numbers, and a copy of your bank statement showing the fraud. When I went in person, they processed my direct deposit change in 3 business days. Also - ask them about placing an eBlock on your account for extra security. This will prevent anyone from making unauthorized changes.

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Gemma Andrews

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Thanks for this advice! I can still log into my account, but I'm also concerned about my SSN being compromised. I'll definitely ask about the eBlock. Did you have to provide any specific documentation for that?

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I would NOT rely on the online system for this!!! My husband tried to change our direct deposit online last year and it took almost a MONTH to go through! We missed a payment completely and had to get it reissued. The SSA system is completely broken when it comes to quick changes. You need to talk to a REAL PERSON to get this fixed before your payment date.

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Gemma Andrews

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Oh no, that's exactly what I'm afraid of! Did you eventually get the missing payment? I absolutely can't miss this month's deposit.

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Reina Salazar

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Try using Claimyr.com to get through to SSA on the phone! I was in a similar situation last month when I needed to update my direct deposit info quickly. I kept getting disconnected or waiting for hours. The Claimyr service got me connected to an actual SSA agent in about 15 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU - it was so much better than waiting for hours or trying to get an appointment at my local office.

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I second this! Used Claimyr when I needed to fix an issue with my survivor benefits. The SSA phone lines are impossible otherwise. Was worth it to actually talk to someone who could help right away.

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Gemma Andrews

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Thank you! I'll check this out right now. At this point I just need to speak to someone ASAP.

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u can also try calling right at 8am when they open thats how i got thru to them last time

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That doesn't work anymore! They changed their phone system in 2023. Now everyone gets the same automated queue no matter when you call. It's INFURIATING!!

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This is an important security issue so I'd recommend taking action through multiple channels simultaneously: 1. Change it online through MySocialSecurity immediately 2. Call SSA (use the Claimyr service others mentioned if needed) 3. Schedule an in-person appointment at your local office as backup Additionally, you should contact the Treasury Department's Direct Express helpline at 1-800-333-1795 as they can sometimes help with direct deposit issues for Social Security payments. Finally, check with your bank - sometimes they can set up a temporary forwarding system from your old account to your new one for recurring deposits.

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Gemma Andrews

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Thank you for these suggestions! I just made the change online and I'm going to try calling again tomorrow. I'll also check with my bank about the forwarding option - I didn't know that was possible.

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Pedro Sawyer

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don't forget to fill out IRS form SSA-1199 too, thats what my aunt had to do

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Mae Bennett

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The SSA-1199 is only needed if you're changing direct deposit by mail or if you don't have online access. It's not required if you make the change online through your MySocialSecurity account or in person at an SSA office.

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Gemma Andrews

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UPDATE: I was finally able to speak with someone at SSA! I used the Claimyr service that was suggested and got through in about 20 minutes. The agent was able to update my direct deposit information immediately and she said the change should be effective for my upcoming payment. She also placed a block on my account to prevent unauthorized changes. Thanks everyone for your help!

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Melina Haruko

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Great to hear! Make sure to keep checking your MySocialSecurity account over the next few days to confirm the change appears there. Sometimes there's a delay between when they process it and when it shows online.

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Make sure to PRINT or SCREENSHOT the confirmation! The SSA has 'lost' records of changes before. Always keep proof of everything you do with them!!

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