The days of receiving your annual Social Security statement in the mail are over, at least for those under 60 years old. Individuals aged 59 and younger will no longer receive an annual Social Security statement in the mail but will instead need to access their Social Security earnings and benefits information through an online account. It only takes a little time to set up your online account and then you are free to check your Social Security information anytime.
Michael Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security calls the online statement “an important financial planning tool.” He explains, “[o]ur new online Social Security statement is simple, easy to use and provides people with estimates they can use to plan for their retirement.”
Your Social Security statement provides a wealth of information including:
To set up your online account, first go to www.ssa.gov. From there, follow the prompts to create an online username and password to set up your online account. You must be 18 years old and will need basic information such as your Social Security number, and valid email and mailing addresses. You will also be required to answer some questions to which only you will know the answer to ensure security of your online account.
Once your account is set up, you can check your earnings and benefits history as often as you like. You can also apply online for retirement and disability benefits.
It is extremely important to check your earnings history regularly so if there are any discrepancies you can promptly contact the Social Security Administration to correct the problem. Your Social Security benefits are based on your average lifetime earnings so if your earnings information is incorrect, you and your family may not receive the correct benefits amount when the time comes. It is easier to correct any problems now than try to address them when it is time to begin receiving benefits. Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to address any problems you find on your Social Security statement, or contact your local Social Security Administration office. Your closest local office can be found on the Social Security Administration website after entering your zip code.
For those 60 years and older, your Social Security statement will continue to be mailed to you. If you are under 60 years old and do not want to have to access your Social Security statement online, you can submit a statement request form or contact your local Social Security Administration office to request a mailed statement.
You may not use the online services if you are acting on behalf of another person but will need to call the Social Security Administration directly at the phone number listed below. You could be subject to civil and/or criminal penalties if you misrepresent your identity or provide false information to the Social Security Administration when setting up your online account.
To contact the Social Security Administration:
Call 1-800-772-1213 for automated telephone services or call between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm Monday through Friday to speak with a Social Security Representative.
If you are hearing impaired, please call 1-800-325-0778.
Online access at www.ssa.gov.