Direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to receive your Social Security benefits. Here's how to set it up or make changes to your existing account.
In this article, we'll cover:
- Why use direct deposit
- How to set it up for the first time
- How to change your direct deposit
- What information you need
1. Why Use Direct Deposit
Benefits of direct deposit:
- Money arrives faster (no mail delays)
- Can't be lost or stolen
- No trips to the bank to deposit
- Automatic—nothing to do each month
- May get early access with some banks
Compared to paper checks:
- Checks can be delayed in mail
- Risk of theft from mailbox
- Must physically deposit
- Wait for check to clear
- No early access possible
Compared to Direct Express:
- More banking options with direct deposit
- Better customer service with most banks
- Additional features (mobile deposit, bill pay)
- Early access available from some providers
2. How to Set It Up for the First Time
During your application:
- Provide bank information when you apply
- SSA will set up direct deposit automatically
- Benefits go directly to your account
- No extra steps needed
If you didn't provide information during application:
- Set it up online at ssa.gov/myaccount
- Or call 1-800-772-1213
- Or visit your local Social Security office
- Provide your bank account information
What you'll need:
- Your bank's routing number (9 digits)
- Your account number
- Account type (checking or savings)
- Your Social Security number
3. How to Change Your Direct Deposit
Online (fastest):
- Go to ssa.gov/myaccount
- Sign in to my Social Security
- Click "Change Direct Deposit"
- Enter new bank information
- Verify the change
By phone:
- Call 1-800-772-1213
- TTY: 1-800-325-0778
- Have your new bank info ready
- They'll update your records
In person:
- Visit local Social Security office
- Bring ID and new bank information
- They'll process the change
- May take effect next payment cycle
Allow time for changes:
- Changes may take one payment cycle
- Don't close old account immediately
- Verify deposit goes to new account
- Then close old account if desired
Important: Keep your old account open until you've received at least one deposit in your new account.
4. What Information You Need
Routing number:
- 9-digit number identifying your bank
- Found at bottom left of checks
- Also in your bank's online portal
- Can call your bank to verify
Account number:
- Your specific account identifier
- Found on checks or bank statements
- In your online banking portal
- Usually 8-12 digits
Where to find this information:
- Bottom of a check
- Bank statements
- Online banking login
- Call your bank's customer service
- Bank's mobile app
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Transposing numbers
- Using routing number as account number
- Giving savings instead of checking (or vice versa)
- Double-check everything before submitting
Getting Your Benefits Earlier
Standard timing:
- SSDI: Based on your birth date
- 1st-10th: Second Wednesday
- 11th-20th: Third Wednesday
- 21st-31st: Fourth Wednesday
- SSI: 1st of the month
Early access:
- Some banks and fintechs offer early deposit
- They release funds when they receive the file
- Can be up to 4 days early for government benefits
- Purple offers early access for SSI and SSDI
How Purple Helps
Purple makes receiving benefits easier:
- Early access up to 4 days for SSI/SSDI
- Simple direct deposit setup
- Account and routing numbers in the app
- Clear deposit notifications
- No hidden fees