TreasuryDirect creates more secure login process

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

The U.S. Treasury Department is requiring TreasuryDirect.gov users to switch to a new login system using ID.me verification by October 28 to access their Treasury securities accounts. This change is intended to strengthen account security but may create access challenges for some users, making early registration essential to avoid disruption.

The U.S. Treasury Department is implementing a new, more secure login process for users of TreasuryDirect.gov, the government website where millions buy and manage Treasury securities such as savings bonds and Treasury bills. The updated system, launched on September 13, incorporates an identity verification service provided by the private company ID.me, which is already used by various federal agencies including the IRS and Social Security Administration.

TreasuryDirect has long offered an electronic platform for purchasing government securities directly, allowing users to securely invest money backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. In 2022, nearly 3 million people opened accounts to purchase Series I savings bonds amid soaring inflation-driven rates. Many others routinely use the site to buy Treasury bills at weekly auctions, especially when such yields exceed returns on traditional bank certificates of deposit.

Under the existing login procedure, account holders enter their account number and password, followed by a one-time code sent via email for two-factor authentication. The new process requires users to create an ID.me account to access their TreasuryDirect holdings starting October 28. If users have not registered their ID.me credentials by that date, they will be unable to log in until they complete the new identity verification.

To establish an ID.me login, individuals must provide two forms of government-issued identification, including their Social Security number and a valid photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Additional verification may involve submitting a live photograph through a smartphone camera to confirm identity. While users who already have ID.me accounts for other federal services will not need to create a new account, they may still be required to complete additional identity checks specific to TreasuryDirect access.

The Treasury Department has sent email notifications to account holders detailing the transition and urging prompt action to ensure uninterrupted access. Experts caution that the setup process may be complicated and recommend users log in soon using the current system to manage their holdings. For example, investors can set automatic renewals for Treasury bills approaching maturity, locking in terms at future auction rates and avoiding gaps in reinvestment during the login transition.

While the new login system aims to enhance security for millions of TreasuryDirect users, the shift poses potential challenges, especially for novice savers unfamiliar with multi-factor digital authentication. Treasury bills and savings bonds remain among the safest investments, with T-bill interest exempt from state income taxes.

Account holders are advised not to delay establishing their ID.me login ahead of the October deadline to maintain online access to their Treasury securities and related tax documents. Although the change may cause temporary disruptions, investments will remain secure regardless of login issues, with funds fully protected by the U.S. government.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.