Did you know that signing up for a free and secure my Social Security account provides personalized tools for everyone, whether you receive benefits or not? You can use your account to request a replacement Social Security card, check the status of an application, estimate future benefits, or manage the benefits you already receive? Since Social Security closures began in March 2020, the Social Security Administration has taken steps to provide a majority of information online?
I don’t receive benefits, why should I create an account?
Even if you are still actively working there are many essential services that can be handled online. You can request a replacement Social Security card; Get personalized retirement benefit estimates; Get estimates for spouse’s benefits; Get proof that you do not receive benefits; Check your application status and more!
I’ve been receiving my benefits just fine, why do I need this account?
Signing up for an account will give you access to services that normally would have been handled by taking a trip to an office in person. If you are receiving benefits setting up for an online account will allow you to Set up or change direct deposit, download a Social Security 1099 form immediately during tax season, Print a benefit verification letter, change your address and so much more!
Why can’t I just walk into an office or call if I have a question?
You may think you need to speak with a Social Security representative to check your application status, set up or change direct deposit, or request a replacement Social Security card. But you don’t! All you have to do is log in to your personal account. Rather than call the toll free Social Security Number and sit on hold, you can take care of your Social Security business from home or away when it’s convenient for you.
I’ve heard horror stories about identity theft, is this safe?
Your personal information is very important. When you create an account, it prevents someone else from possibly creating an account in your name. The Social Security Administration uses a system called “two-step authentication” to verify you are the one logging in to your account. Their updated security measures allow you and only you to access your personal information safely and securely.
I’ve been working since age 16, how do i know that the government has all of my correct information?
Did you know you can see your entire earnings history with your personal my Social Security account? Do you know why it’s important to check it and make sure it’s accurate? Your future benefits are based on your earnings history. You won’t receive all the benefits you should if our records understate your real earnings. Use your account to verify if your employers reported your earnings to us correctly. The Social Security Administration will absolutely let you point out an error if you find one.
I’m only in my 30’s, why should I do this?
Retirement planning is essential for a secure future. But you also need to have an emergency plan for accidents. Having the personal my Social Security account makes it easy. You can view your future retirement estimates, disability benefit estimates and/or possible survivor benefits for your family members.
Creating a free my Social Security account takes very little time and can be done from a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer. Click here to be redirected to the Social Security Website and begin the sign up process.
Navigating the Social Security process and the website in general can be tricky but it doesn’t have to be impossible. To make sure you are equipped to do that and overcome all the minor challenges associated with getting information from the Social Security Administration, count on the experienced Chicago Social Security attorneys at Katz, Friedman, Eisenstein, Johnson, Bareck & Bertuca, who have many years of taking on, and winning, Social Security disability cases for our clients. To set up a free case evaluation, contact us at 312-724-5846 or through our website.