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It’s time to update your Social Security login
My inbox is flooded with folks asking about an email they got from the Social Security Administration. I mentioned it earlier this week, and, nope, it’s not a scam — it’s legit. But this change is big enough that we need to spend more time talking about it.
Social Security scoop
The new home for all things Social Security online is Login.gov. The idea was to make signing in easier, but they also needed to comply with federal authentication standards.
Even if you don’t collect welfare checks or SSA retirement benefits, it’s worth updating your account. This way, it’s easy to order a replacement Social Security card, estimate your future retirement benefits, and say what benefits you want and when.
If you already have a Login.gov or ID.me account, you’re good to go.
If you registered for a my Social Security online account before Sept. 18, 2021, do this:
- Go to SSA.gov and sign in with your existing credentials. You’ll be prompted to change over to Login.gov.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to create a Login.gov account. At the end, you’ll receive a confirmation screen.
- Log in and access your account. That’s it!
Keep it extra secure
The new process requires a password and two-factor authentication. Yes! The government recommends biometrics like face or touch unlock or an authenticator app.
An authenticator app generates six-digit codes every 30 seconds or so, replacing texts that send you a one-time login. There are lots of options, but I use Google Authenticator (Android and iOS).
Here’s how to make an authenticator app work with Login.gov:
- Download and install an authenticator app on your phone.
- Open your computer’s browser and sign into your Login.gov account at https://secure.login.gov.
- Select Enable next to Authentication app. Follow the instructions to scan or enter a code to link your authentication app to your account.
Just follow the steps on your screen, and you’ll be sitting pretty.
🤗 Now, let’s all be nice humans and pass this along to someone who could use it. I’m sure you know at least one person who’s feeling totally confused by this switch or knows nothing about it.
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Tags: Android, computer, Google, security
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