Social Security account locking confusion - can't access benefits after securing my mySSA account

I've done this several times without issues. The key is making sure you have the exact same information when unlocking as you used when setting up the account. Double-check that you're entering your SSN correctly (easy to transpose numbers when stressed), and use the exact same address format you used when you registered. If you've moved or changed phone numbers since setting up your account, that could be causing the verification failure. Also, make sure you're not trying this on a public Wi-Fi network - the system sometimes blocks those for security reasons.

my daughter set mine up and does this for me every time i need to check something. she says its pretty easy but you need to remember all your security questions. do you have those written down somewhere??

The Social Security Administration DELIBERATELY makes this difficult on purpose!! I've been locked out of my account THREE TIMES in the past year. Each time I had to physically go to the SS office and wait 4+ hours just to get my account unlocked. They claim it's for "security" but really it's just incompetence and outdated systems. And don't even get me started on how they never tell you about the distinction between locking your account and blocking electronic access - TOTALLY DIFFERENT THINGS with different unlock procedures!!!

Let me clarify a few things about the mySSA account locking process. There are actually two different security features that people often confuse: 1. **Account Lock** - This prevents anyone (including you) from viewing your Social Security information online through mySSA. You can unlock this yourself with proper verification. 2. **Block Electronic Access** - This more severe measure prevents anyone from creating a mySSA account in your name or accessing benefits electronically. This requires contacting or visiting an SSA office to remove. It sounds like you've implemented the first option. To unlock, you need to provide your username, password, and successfully complete the multi-factor authentication. If your phone number has changed, that could certainly be the issue. If you've tried 3 times and failed, the system might have temporarily suspended your unlock attempts as a security measure. Wait 24 hours and try again. Make sure you're using a secure, private network and the same device you normally use if possible.

had this same problem last week lol. tried like 10 times to unlock it and kept getting errors. ended up having to call them and surprisingly got through after only waiting like 20 mins. the lady on the phone said my account got extra locked because of too many failed attempts at unlocking it myself. they fixed it while i was on the phone and i could log in right away after that. good luck!!!

After facing the same frustration trying to reach SSA by phone, I finally found Claimyr.com and it was a game-changer. Instead of waiting for hours or getting disconnected, they got me connected to a real SSA agent in about 20 minutes. I was able to explain my account locking issue and get it resolved in the same call. They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU - it saved me from having to drive to my local office which is always packed. Definitely worth checking out since you're dealing with account access issues that really need a human agent to solve.

my neigbhor says she never locks her account because of all this hastle. but then her cousin got her identity stolen and somebody tried to change her direct deposit info for her ss checks!!! so its probably worth the trouble to keep it locked. my daughter says its like locking your house - annoying to use keys but better than leaving the door wide open

To directly answer your question about attempts - there isn't a published limit on how many unlock attempts you can make before permanent lockout, but the system does implement progressively longer temporary suspensions after multiple failed attempts. The best approach is to wait a full 24 hours, then try once more with very careful attention to all details. If that fails, you'll need to contact SSA directly. The most reliable approach is to visit a field office in person with proper identification. If that's difficult due to distance or mobility, calling is your next best option. Early morning (first 30 minutes after they open) on Wednesday or Thursday tends to have slightly shorter wait times in most regions.

Just wanted to add - make sure you're using the correct URL: ssa.gov/myaccount/ - there are unfortunately some convincing phishing sites out there. If you're getting odd error messages or the page looks different than you remember, double-check the URL carefully. And when you do get back in, I recommend setting up extra security measures like two-factor authentication if you haven't already. Makes the whole lock/unlock process much smoother in the future.