Social Security Direct Deposit change denied online - any way to avoid the phone nightmare?
I've been trying to update my bank account information for my SS benefits direct deposit for THREE DAYS and the MySocialSecurity website keeps giving me an error. I closed my old bank account last week (fees were ridiculous) and opened a new one at a credit union. Every time I try to update my direct deposit info online, I get "We cannot process your request at this time. Please try again later." Has anyone successfully changed their banking info recently? The thought of calling and being on hold for 3+ hours is making me break out in hives. My next payment is due in 15 days and I'm stressing that it'll go to my closed account. Any tips for getting through on the phone or making the website work?
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Anna Kerber
Same thing happened to me in January! The website is useless for bank changes. I spent 4 hours on hold trying to get through to a person. Good luck!
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Roger Romero
•Oh no, 4 hours?! Did you at least get it resolved in one call? I can't believe they make this so difficult in 2025.
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Niko Ramsey
The SSA website blocks direct deposit changes online sometimes as a security measure. If you've recently changed your password, address, or if it's your first direct deposit change, it will force you to call. It's frustrating but designed to prevent fraud. When you call, have your bank routing number, account number, and most recent benefit amount ready. They'll verify your identity with those details plus personal questions.
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Roger Romero
•I DID change my password last month! That explains it. Still, they should tell you that's why instead of a generic error. Ugh, guess I have no choice but to call. Thanks for the explanation.
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Seraphina Delan
There's actually a service I found called Claimyr that can help you skip the phone wait times with Social Security. It basically holds your place in line and calls you back when an agent is available. Saved me a 3-hour wait last month when I needed to fix a payment issue. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU
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Jabari-Jo
•does it acutally work tho? sounds to good to be true tbh. SS never picks up!!
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Roger Romero
•Oh wow, I've never heard of this. Just watched the video. Definitely going to try this - anything to avoid being on hold all day. Thanks for the suggestion!
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Kristin Frank
THIS IS WHY I STILL GET PAPER CHECKS!!! Everyone told me I was crazy for not using direct deposit but THIS RIGHT HERE is exactly why! The SSA's systems are TOTALLY BROKEN and they don't care!!! I tried updating my address online last year and ended up having to go IN PERSON to the office after THREE FAILED CALLS. The government needs to fix this disaster!
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Roger Romero
•Paper checks definitely avoid this particular problem! But I travel too much to rely on mail delivery. I just wish they'd make the website actually work in 2025!
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Micah Trail
•paper checks can get lost or stolen tho. my neighbor had that happen twice last year. nothing is perfect
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Nia Watson
I went through this exact nightmare back in November. The website kept blocking me too. Here's what finally worked: I called right when they opened at 8am Eastern (7am my time, ugh). Still waited 45 minutes but that's better than the 3+ hours when I tried calling at noon. Also, if you have a field office nearby, sometimes walking in works faster than calling - but make an appointment online first if you can.
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Roger Romero
•This is super helpful! I'll try the early morning call tomorrow. Our local office is always packed with people whenever I drive by, so calling might still be better. Really appreciate the tip!
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Anna Kerber
My son got me a direct express card and now i dont have to worry about bank stuff. social security puts the money right on the card. its like a debit card. maybe this is easier for u than changing banks?
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Niko Ramsey
•Direct Express is definitely an option, but be aware it has limitations. You can't deposit other funds to it, and some users report issues with customer service. It works well for many people but research the fees and limitations before switching.
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Roger Romero
•I considered Direct Express but I need a full bank account for other deposits and bills. I'm committed to this credit union because they have much better rates than my old bank. But thanks for the suggestion!
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Micah Trail
when i changed my bank last year i just went to my bank and they helped me fill out the form right there! my credit union did all the work and i didnt have to call ssa at all. maybe try asking ur new bank?
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Roger Romero
•Wait, really?? I had no idea banks could do this! I'm going to call my credit union right now and ask. That would be SO much easier! Thank you!!!
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Niko Ramsey
•This is correct - many banks and credit unions can initiate direct deposit changes through what's called an enrollment process. They essentially contact the SSA on your behalf. Not all financial institutions offer this service, but it's definitely worth asking about!
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