Updated: August 2026 • Based on official SSA, Login.gov, and ID.me instructions
Which One Should I Choose?
Quick decision guide:
- You live in the U.S. and have a driver’s license or state ID → Start with Login.gov
- You live outside the U.S. or keep failing phone verification → Use ID.me
- You already have a Login.gov or ID.me account from another agency → Use the one you already have
Login.gov vs ID.me Comparison
| Feature | Login.gov | ID.me |
|---|---|---|
| Who runs it | U.S. Government (GSA) | Private company |
| Best for | Most people in the U.S. | People outside the U.S. or video call preference |
| ID accepted | Driver’s license, state ID, U.S. passport | Driver’s license, state ID, passport, passport card |
| Phone number | U.S. number usually required | More flexible |
| If online fails | In-person at U.S. Post Office | Live video call with agent |
Before You Start – Checklist
- Valid email address you can access right now
- Your Social Security number
- Government photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- U.S. phone number (strongly recommended for Login.gov)
- Good lighting for taking clear photos of your ID
- 10–20 minutes of uninterrupted time
Quick Start – Create Your Account
Go to the official page
Visit ssa.gov/myaccount and click Create an Account.
Choose Login.gov or ID.me
Select the option that fits you best.
Verify your identity
Follow the identity proofing steps.
Access your account
You will be taken into your personal my Social Security account.
Login.gov Identity Proofing Steps
Upload photos of your ID
Clear photos of the front and back of your driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport. Good lighting, no glare, all corners visible.
Enter your Social Security number
Login.gov checks your information against official records.
Verify your phone number
Receive a one-time code by text or call. Must be a U.S. number that can be matched to your name.
Confirm and finish
Re-enter your password. Your identity is now verified.
Alternative: If online verification fails, you can verify in person at a participating U.S. Post Office.
Official Video Guides
Create Login.gov Account
Official SSA video
Create ID.me Account
Official SSA video
How to Choose Login.gov or ID.me
Official SSA decision guide
What You Can Do Once You Have the Account
- View your full Social Security Statement
- Check your complete earnings history
- Get personalized benefit estimates
- Request a replacement Social Security card (in most states)
- Change your address or phone number
- Set up or change direct deposit
- Get an instant benefit verification letter
- Download your SSA-1099 tax form
- Apply for retirement, Medicare, or disability benefits online
- Report wages if you receive disability or SSI
Common Error Messages & Exact Fixes
Take clearer photos of your ID in good lighting. Try the other provider. Or verify in person / by video call.
Avoid Google Voice, prepaid, and VoIP numbers. Use a phone number that is in your name.
Make sure the ID is not expired (or only recently expired for ID.me). All four corners must be visible with no glare.
You likely created a Login.gov or ID.me account in the past. Use “Forgot password” with the email you think you used.
Temporarily lift the freeze with the credit bureaus, then try again. Or switch to the other provider.
Mobile Tips
- Use Chrome or Safari (updated versions work best)
- Take ID photos in good natural or indoor lighting
- Hold the phone steady and make sure the entire ID is in the frame
- Avoid using Private / Incognito mode if you keep having issues
- Have your email open in another tab so you can quickly confirm the link
Still Stuck?
- Try the other provider (switch between Login.gov and ID.me)
- Call Login.gov support: 844-875-6446 (24/7)
- Visit the ID.me Help Center
- Call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm)
- Make an appointment at your local Social Security office
Related Guides
Need More Help?
Free educational resource • Updated August 2026 • Always verify at official .gov sites