Account set up, log in, management, and documents
Click on the appropriate topic below to find common questions and answers to online account set up, log in, and account management.
Follow these steps. (Or, download a how-to (PDF).)
- Use this new account setup link.
- Enter your first name, last name, date of birth, phone number, and your ID number (either your Social Security number or a number provided by your employer) or zip code.
- Click the box “I consent to doing business electronically.” Then click “Create account.”
- If your phone number matches our records, you’ll receive a one-time code via text. If not, you’ll be asked to verify your identity by uploading a copy of a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport), and a selfie.
- Once your identity has been verified: Create a username and password, and provide an email address. Click “Continue.”
- Select and answer three security questions. If we ever need to verify your identity, we’ll use these questions.
- Next, set up a passkey or multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your account using the on-screen prompts.
- Type in the code sent to you and follow any directions on screen to complete log in.
Note: If you elect to skip a passkey set up, every time you log in, or if you forget your password, you will be asked for a verification code to confirm it’s really you. The first time you log in, you choose how you receive verification codes. Options include a phone text or call, or authenticator app.
Verifying your identity through a document upload is a more secure way for Principal to protect against fraud and bad actors. Copies of documents and photos are encrypted and stored within secure systems that follow strict financial industry security and privacy standards. Access is protected and limited.
A passkey is a simple way to securely access your account using information that’s unique to you. It’s an alternative to a password that’s better at protecting your phone, apps, and online access. When you log in, your device uses biometrics (like your fingerprint or face) or a PIN to verify it's you. A passkey cannot be stolen or copied, and is only stored on your device.
Log in; navigate to “My profile” and click on “Manage 2-factor authentication preferences.” Follow the on-screen instructions. Your passkey is saved to your device’s password manager.
If you use cloud services, your passkeys automatically sync across devices. For other devices, you can get temporary access by scanning a QR code with your phone.
Yes, unless your desktop's passkey manager is synced with your mobile device. Note: For Android devices, you may need to ensure the Google Credential Manager is being used. Third-party or other device specific credential managers may not work with the Principal app.
No. You need a separate passkey for each username. Passkeys should not be shared.
Log in; navigate to “Manage two-factor authentication preferences” and follow the prompts to remove passkey from the device. Remember: multi-factor authentication (MFA) is required to log in to your Principal account, so ensure you have an alternate method set up.
- On an Apple device, to disable passkey access for your Principal account, navigate to the Passwords app, select “Passkeys,” and follow the on-screen instructions.
- On an Android device, settings may vary based on manufacturer, but in general, you will navigate to Settings, then your password or passkey manager. Select “Principal,” then “Remove.”
If you do not set up passkeys you are required to use MFA for account access. MFA is a unique verification code, sent to you with an authenticator app, to confirm your identity. Once you enter your username, password, and that code, you can access your account. MFA helps prevent cybercriminals from accessing your account, even if they have your password.
It’s a third-party app that generates a unique one-time-use code so you can log in. Our site has been optimized to work with the Google Authenticator app, which is available for download from your preferred app store.
Log in to your Principal.com account; go to “My Profile” and then click on “Manage 2-Factor Authentication Preferences.” Click on the blue “Connect Authenticator” button next to Authenticator app. A QR code will appear on the screen; scan the code with your mobile phone or enter the 16 digit code. Click the “Next” or “Continue” button on the Principal website. Enter the authenticator 6-digit code (which changes every 30 seconds) on Principal.com. Once you have successfully entered the code, your app is ready to use.
Click “Log in” at the top of any Principal.com page, enter your username, and click the “Next” button. Then enter your password and click “Verify.”
If you’re having trouble logging, please call 800-986-3343, Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CST, and a customer service representative can help.
Go to the log in page.
- Reset your password here.
- Confirm your identity by providing the requested information; click “Continue.”
- You’ll receive a verification code by text, voice call, or an authenticator app; enter it.
You’ll see your username and may reset your password.
Log in and navigate to “My profile.” You can update your password, customer service questions and answers, mailing address, email address, mobile phone number, passkey preferences, multi-factor authentication security settings, and more.
If you have the Principal app installed on your phone, click “Settings” and scroll down to the “Delete account” button. You’ll be asked if you have an active product or account with Principal. If the answer is no, hit “Delete account.” If the answer is yes, you’ll be asked to call customer service at 800-986-3343, Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT.
If you are using a desktop computer, please call customer service at 800-986-3343, Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT.
Please note: Accounts with no online access may be at greater risk of fraud.
To view your account statements, log in to your account. Under your name, navigate to “My documents,” then click on the product card for available documents. Learn more details about how to read your statement (PDF).
Log in to your account, navigate to "My profile," then "Manage delivery preferences." Select "email" for the accounts you want to receive statements electronically. Ensure your personal information, such as your address and email, is up to date.
Taxes and tax forms
Find tax form mailing dates, sign up for tax form e-delivery, and discover more about common tax forms related to retirement accounts.
Retirement and compensation plans
Update beneficiaries, change contribution levels, and more for Principal retirement products.
Insurance and claims
Check claim status, find providers (if applicable), and learn specifics on each Principal insurance product.