Creating a my Social Security account is all upside. Not only does it ensure Social Security has your correct contact information, it's also where you go to view your earnings history, estimate your retirement benefits, and more. And you can do it in only a few minutes.

Step 1: Log into the Social Security website

Go to the Social Security website (https://www.ssa.gov/site/signin/en/). Then click the box for my Social Security.

The screen looks slightly different if you're accessing the site from your mobile device.

Step 2: Create an account

After you select my Social Security, you'll see a page that lets you either log into your account or create a new one. It might look a little confusing, because you have to scroll down to find the "Create an account" option.

The next screen might also look confusing, since it shows you a place to enter your email address – even though you just clicked "Create an account." Once again, the option you're looking for is BELOW the sign-in button:

You should finally see the screen to create your SSA account.

Step 3: Check your email

Your screen should now show a box telling you to check your email.

That means it's time to confirm that the email address you entered in the previous step was correct. Check your email. Within a few minutes, you should receive a message with a large blue bar that you can click to confirm your email address. If that doesn't work, copy the web address below the confirmation button and paste it into your web browser's address bar.

Step 4: Create your password

Once you've clicked the link to confirm your email, you'll be prompted to create a password and given the option to create a second level of security, also known as two-level authentication. You have several options. There is no right or wrong answer; it's whatever you're comfortable with. You may also choose to not add two-level authentication.

Step 5: Enter your personal information

Once you complete your security protocols, it's time to accept Login.gov's Terms of Service. Scroll all the way to the bottom to check the box "I agree to the Terms of Service" and then hit Next. You're finally ready to enter your personal information on the Social Security website.

Once you complete each field, you'll have another chance to add an extra level of security.

If you choose to do this, follow the prompts provided. Again, you may also choose to not add the second layer of security.

Step 6: Finish setting up your my Social Security account

Once you accept the Terms of Service, your my Social Security account is active, allowing you to securely access a variety of online services.

From there, you can complete your profile, view earnings history, estimate benefits, and more. You'll also find signing up for Medicare to be a breeze.

Related reading: How to Sign Up for Medicare