For several years Social Security has encouraged Americans to access Social Security’s website to take advantage of the agency’s services. Now, Social Security has announced it will offer access to 1099s to those who received either Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
Previously, Social Security would mail 1099s each January to beneficiaries. The 1099s indicated how much a recipient would receive in Social Security benefits each year so Americans can report the previous year’s income on their tax returns. As one would expect, sometimes people would misplace or lose their 1099s and would only be able to receive a new 1099 by calling Social Security and getting a replacement mailed to them or by visiting a local Social Security office where wait times can be long.
The new online service will enable someone to easily replace a misplaced 1099.
“Beginning this tax season, any my Social Security account holder who misplaces their original SSA-1099 will be able to request an instant replacement from our menu of online services,” said Carolyn Colvin, Social Security’s acting commissioner.
To be able to access online 1099s, users must set-up a my Social Security account online at www.ssa.gov. There are other advantages to setting-up online my Social Security accounts. After creating an account Americans can keep track of their earnings, get estimates on future benefits, sign-up for direct deposit and inform Social Security of address changes.
“Setting up a my Social Security account is quick, easy, and secure; plus it’s a great way to do business with Social Security,” Colvin said.
Social Security estimates that 16 million people have already signed up for accounts on Social Security’s website. To learn more about all of the services Social Security offers online and how to sign-up for an online account at www.ssa.gov click here.
