Unfortunately, we live in a world where hacking has become the norm. Every week we see articles for Google, Forbes, the FBI, Apple and others, informing us of the latest SCAM or attack. Having had a friend who this happened to, who lost $12,000 and because she clicked on a link that granted access, the bank will NOT return her money. Why? She gave permission.

Which is why the Social Security Administration (SSA) is taking strong steps to secure everyones’ online accounts. It may feel like a burden, and if it did the trick, you will never know, since you will never be hacked; but if you were to be hacked, you will wish you listened. So here is a step-by-step guide to creating your LOGIN.gov account, which will come in handy as more organizations start turning to this form of security.

How to Create Your LOGIN.gov Account in 7 Simple Steps

1. Visit the Login.gov website: Open your web browser and go to https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email (or simply click on the link).
2. Enter your email address and choose your preferred language.
3. Accept the Rules of Use: You must accept the terms and conditions to use the service.
4. Submit and confirm your email: Click the “Submit” button and look for an email from LOGIN.gov and click the link “Confirm email address”.
5. THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP! Create a strong password: DO NOT use a password you’ve used before or for every account you’ve ever create! This is your money you are risking if you get lazy in creating a password. You will want a combination of CAPITAL and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. For example, choose a phrase you would remember (e.g. SavingMoneyin2025) and then use special characters, numbers and letters to write it out ($@vingM0n3yin2O25). DO NOT use my example, as it is now out there in the web. That is a guarantee that you will be hacked!
6. Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA): There are many options you can use for this. The simplest is to require a text/SMS message with a pin number for verification, otherwise you will need to install applications that generate pins for you.
7. Complete identity verification: Follow the prompts to verify your identity.

Your account has now been created! Remember to keep your login information secure. Do not share it with anyone, as you don’t know how security conscience they may be.

While many technologically challenged individuals will choose to go to the Social Security office or call their toll-free number, rather than deal with this, keep in mind the long wait times on hold or in line…EVERY TIME YOU NEED SOMETHING. You do this once, and you are set and ready for the next institution demanding the change.

Make sure you share this article with your friends and family. And if this was forwarded to you, make sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay on top of news, updates, scam alerts and more regarding your benefits. We never share your information with anyone; we simply use it to serve you and keep you in the know.