Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits are being urged to act quickly as a mandatory system update takes effect. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that it will begin suspending payments and locking user accounts that haven’t been migrated to the federal Login.gov platform.
This urgent measure is part of a broader modernization strategy, aimed at protecting sensitive personal data and enhancing the user experience on federal portals. But failure to comply comes with serious consequences: losing access to your online account and having your Social Security benefits temporarily halted.
What You Need to Do to Keep Receiving Your Social Security Payments
The SSA has made it clear: if you created your My Social Security account before September 18, 2021, you must transition to Login.gov to continue accessing services and receiving your payments. This applies to retirees, disability beneficiaries, and anyone else who depends on SSA services online.
If you don’t make the switch, you will lose access to:
- Viewing your benefit statements or payment history
- Requesting a replacement Social Security card
- Estimating future benefits
- Updating personal information
- Tracking claims or applications
Most importantly, your monthly payments may be stopped until the account is properly updated.
How to Make the Switch to Login.gov
The update process is simple but time-sensitive. Here’s how to secure your benefits:
- Go to www.ssa.gov
- Find the option to link or migrate your account to Login.gov
- Register or sign in with Login.gov
- Confirm your identity as instructed
- Wait for a confirmation email from an official “.gov” address
Once the transition is complete, test your login to ensure everything works. The SSA emphasizes that it will only send emails from secure, verified domains—so avoid clicking on suspicious links or unofficial websites.
This change is part of a federal initiative to streamline digital services and prevent fraud, especially among seniors and disabled beneficiaries. If you’ve received an SSA notice or email about the transition, do not ignore it. Your financial security may depend on timely action.