If you receive Social Security benefits, you’ll likely need your Social Security tax statement — known as SSA-1099 (or SSA-1042S for non-citizens) — to file your federal income tax return.
The good news? You don’t need to wait for a paper copy in the mail. The Social Security Administration (SSA) now makes it easy to view, download, and print your statement online.
Here’s how to access your tax statement, what to do if you’ve lost it, and why this form matters during tax season.
What Is the SSA-1099 Form?
The SSA-1099 is a tax form that the Social Security Administration sends each year to people who received Social Security benefits in the previous year.
It shows the total amount of benefits you received and how much, if any, was withheld for taxes. It’s important for filing your taxes, especially if your benefits are taxable based on your income level.
If you are a nonresident alien, you’ll receive the SSA-1042S instead, which serves the same purpose but follows different IRS guidelines.
Who Gets the SSA-1099?
You will receive an SSA-1099 if you were paid Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), or survivor benefits in the past year. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients do not receive this form because SSI is not taxable.
The form is typically mailed in January to the address the SSA has on file. But if you’ve lost your copy or didn’t receive it, you can easily access it online.
How to Get Your SSA-1099 Tax Form Online?
To get your tax statement online, you’ll need to sign in or create a my Social Security account on the SSA’s official website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Go to the Social Security website:
Visit www.ssa.gov - Sign in or create a “my Social Security” account:
Navigate to the my Social Security portal at
https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
If you don’t already have an account, you can create one using a valid email address and personal identifying information. - Access your tax form:
Once logged in, select the link that says “Replacement Documents”, and then click “Get a copy of your SSA-1099/1042S.” You’ll be able to download or print the form immediately.
The online form is available for the most recent tax year, usually by early February.
When Can You Request It?
The SSA typically mails the SSA-1099 in late January, but if you didn’t receive it by early February, it’s safe to go online and request a replacement.
The online system is usually updated by that time to allow downloads of the current year’s form.
You can also call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office, but online access is the fastest and easiest option.
What If You Need an Older Tax Statement?
Your Social Security account also gives you access to prior-year SSA-1099 forms going back several years. Just log in and look for the year you need under the tax documents section.
This is especially helpful if you’re amending a past tax return or working with an accountant on previous filings.
Don’t Have a my Social Security Account?
If you’re unable or prefer not to use the internet, you can still get a replacement SSA-1099 by calling the SSA or visiting a local office.
But for most people, setting up their Social Security account is worthwhile. Besides tax documents, you can use it to:
- Check your benefit statements
- Update your mailing address or direct deposit
- Estimate future benefits
- Manage other personal info
You can learn more about the benefits of having an account here:
https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
Security Tip
When creating my Social Security account, the SSA uses Login.gov or ID.me for secure identity verification. Make sure you’re on the official website — ssa.gov — to avoid scams or phishing attempts.
Never share your Social Security number or login credentials with anyone unless you’re on a verified government website.
Need Help?
If you have questions or trouble accessing your SSA-1099 online, call the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 or use their help center at https://www.ssa.gov/help/
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.