Whether you're switching banks, opening a new account, or just want faster access to your benefits, changing your SSI or SSDI direct deposit information is straightforward. The key is knowing the right steps to avoid payment delays.
In this article, we'll cover:
- When you might need to change your direct deposit
- Three ways to update your information with SSA
- What information you'll need
- How long the change takes
- Common mistakes to avoid
- How Purple makes switching easy
1. When You Might Need to Change Your Direct Deposit
There are several reasons you might need to update your direct deposit information:
- You're opening a new bank account
- Your current bank is closing or merging
- You want to switch to an account with better features
- You're moving from Direct Express to a bank account
- You want early direct deposit access
Whatever your reason, Social Security makes it easy to update your payment destination.
2. Three Ways to Update Your Information With SSA
You have three options for changing your direct deposit:
Online through my Social Security:
- Log in at ssa.gov/myaccount
- Go to "My Profile"
- Select "Direct Deposit" and enter your new bank information
- This is the fastest method
By phone:
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213
- TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 7 PM local time
- Be prepared for potential hold times
In person:
- Visit your local Social Security office
- Bring identification and your new bank account information
- Schedule an appointment for faster service
Important: Only update your direct deposit through official SSA channels. Never share your banking information with anyone claiming to be from Social Security who contacts you first—that's likely a scam.
3. What Information You'll Need
Before you start, gather this information:
- Your Social Security number
- Your current address
- Your new bank's routing number (9 digits)
- Your new account number
- The type of account (checking or savings)
You can find your routing and account numbers on a check, in your bank's mobile app, or by calling your new bank directly.
4. How Long Does the Change Take?
The timeline depends on when you make the request:
- Changes made early in the month usually take effect for your next payment
- Changes made close to your payment date may not apply until the following month
- SSA will send a confirmation letter once the change is processed
Important: Keep your old account open until you confirm your deposit has arrived in your new account. This prevents your payment from being returned if the switch hasn't completed yet.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common errors:
Closing your old account too soon: Wait until you've received at least one deposit in your new account before closing the old one.
Entering incorrect numbers: Double-check your routing and account numbers. A single wrong digit can delay your payment.
Missing the cutoff: If you change your information too close to your payment date, expect the change to take effect the following month.
Not updating other deposits: If you receive VA benefits or other payments by direct deposit, you'll need to update those separately with each agency.
Forgetting to update automatic payments: Review any bills or subscriptions tied to your old account.
6. What If You're a Representative Payee?
If you're a representative payee managing benefits for someone else, you can still change the direct deposit information. The account must be:
- Titled properly in the beneficiary's name
- Set up to indicate your representative payee status
- Compliant with SSA requirements for fund management
Contact SSA directly to make changes as a representative payee. You may need to provide additional documentation.
How Purple Makes Switching Easy
Purple is built for people who receive SSI, SSDI, and other disability benefits. When you switch your direct deposit to Purple, you get:
Up to 4 Days Early Access Get your benefits deposited up to 4 days before the official payment date—giving you earlier access to your money.
No Fees No monthly fees, no minimum balance, and free access to 55,000+ ATMs nationwide.
Simple Setup Purple provides your routing and account numbers right in the app, making it easy to update your information with SSA.
Built-In Support Have questions about the switch? Purple Companion can help:
- "What's my routing number?"
- "How do I update my direct deposit with SSA?"
- "When will my first payment arrive?"
Ready to Switch to Purple?
Changing your direct deposit information is simple when you know the steps. With Purple, you'll not only make the switch easily—you'll also get faster access to your benefits and tools designed specifically for disability recipients.