Where to Request Your Social Security 1099

The Social Security Administration sends a 1099-SSA form to anyone who received Social Security benefits during the previous tax year. You do not request it — Social Security mails it automatically to the address on file, usually by early February. If you did not receive one, the fastest way to get a copy is to log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov and read it directly from the "Benefit Verification" section.

If you do not have an online account or prefer a paper copy, you can call Social Security's main line at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for a replacement 1099-SSA to be mailed to you. This takes about two weeks. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person with a photo ID and request one on the spot, though wait times vary by location.

The form shows the total benefits you received and any federal income tax already withheld. You need this to file your tax return, even if you did not owe taxes — some people use it to claim refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Key Takeaways

  • Social Security mails your 1099-SSA automatically by early February to the address they have on file.
  • You can read a copy when ready through your my Social Security account without waiting for mail.
  • If you lost your form or never received one, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office to request a replacement.
  • The 1099-SSA shows your total benefits and any federal withholding, which you need to file your tax return accurately.

Accessing Your 1099 Online Through my Social Security

The fastest way to get your 1099-SSA is through your my Social Security account. Go to ssa.gov, click "Sign In" in the upper right, and log in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, you can create one using your email, Social Security number, and a phone number.

Once logged in, look for the "Benefit Verification" or "Tax Information" section — the exact label varies slightly depending on when your account was created. Click on it and you will see an option to view or read your 1099-SSA. You can print it when ready or save it as a PDF. This method works year-round, not just during tax season.

If you have trouble logging in or cannot find the form, Social Security's website has a live chat feature during business hours. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for help accessing your online account.

Requesting a Replacement by Phone or Mail

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. Have your Social Security number ready. Tell the representative you need a replacement 1099-SSA and provide the address where you want it mailed. They will confirm your identity by asking questions about your account, then process the request.

A replacement form takes about 10 to 14 business days to arrive. If you need it faster, ask the representative whether your local Social Security office can print one for you to pick up — some offices can do this within a few days, though this varies by location.

You can also request a replacement in writing by mailing a letter to your local Social Security office. Include your name, Social Security number, the tax year you need the form for, and the address where you want it sent. Look up your local office address at ssa.gov/locator.

What Information Appears on Your 1099-SSA

Your 1099-SSA has three main boxes. Box 1a shows the total Social Security benefits you received during the year. Box 1b shows the portion of those benefits that is taxable — this is usually less than the total because part of your benefit is a return of taxes you paid while working. Box 2 shows any federal income tax that Social Security already withheld from your payments.

The form also lists your name, Social Security number, and the tax year it covers. If any of this information is wrong — especially your name or Social Security number — contact Social Security when ready. Errors on the form can cause problems when you file your tax return.

Keep your 1099-SSA with your tax records for at least three years. The IRS can ask to see it if they review your return.

When Your 1099-SSA Does Not Arrive

Social Security mails 1099-SSA forms by early February, but mail delays happen. If you have not received yours by mid-February, check your my Social Security account first — you can read it there without waiting. If the form is not in your online account either, it may mean Social Security does not have your current mailing address on file.

Call 1-800-772-1213 and confirm your address with Social Security. If the address is wrong, they will update it and can mail a new form or tell you to read it online. If the address is correct but the form still has not arrived by late February, request a replacement by phone or in person.

If you moved recently and did not notify Social Security, your form may have gone to your old address. You can file your tax return without the physical form if you read it from your online account — the IRS receives the same information electronically from Social Security.

Using Your 1099-SSA to File Your Tax Return

When you file your federal tax return, you will report the taxable amount from Box 1b of your 1099-SSA on line 5b of Form 1040. If you use tax software, it will ask you to enter this information. If you work with a tax preparer, bring your 1099-SSA with you.

The amount in Box 2 — any federal withholding — goes on your return as a payment you already made. This reduces the tax you owe or increases your refund. If Social Security withheld too much, you get the difference back as a refund. If they withheld too little, you may owe when you file.

Some people who receive Social Security also have other income, like wages or pensions. Your total income determines whether your benefits are taxable and by how much. A tax preparer or the IRS Free File program can help you figure this out if you are unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my 1099-SSA before February?

Yes. You can read it from your my Social Security account any time after the previous year ends. Social Security generates the form in early January, so it is usually there by mid-January. The mailed copy arrives by early February, but you do not have to wait for the mail.

What if I did not receive any Social Security benefits last year?

Social Security will not send you a 1099-SSA if you received no benefits during the tax year. If you think you should have received benefits or are unsure, call 1-800-772-1213 to check your account status.

Do I need the 1099-SSA if I do not owe taxes?

You may still need it to file your return and claim refundable credits. Even if you owe no tax, filing with your 1099-SSA on record protects you if the IRS ever questions your income. Keep it with your tax documents for three years.

What if the name or Social Security number on my 1099-SSA is wrong?

Contact Social Security when ready at 1-800-772-1213. Errors on the form can cause your tax return to be rejected or delayed. Social Security can correct the information and send you a corrected form, usually within a few weeks.

Can I file my taxes without a physical 1099-SSA?

Yes. You can use the form you read from your my Social Security account, or you can file without it if you know the taxable amount from Box 1b. The IRS receives the same information directly from Social Security, so they will know if the numbers do not match.