As tax season rolls around, millions of Americans who receive Social Security benefits are looking for their tax documents—particularly the SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S forms. These statements are essential for accurately filing your federal income tax return, as they show the total amount of Social Security benefits received during the year.
Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes it easy to get these forms online, especially for those who may have misplaced the one mailed to them or simply prefer digital access.
Here’s a clear guide on how to quickly and securely access your Social Security tax statement online—and everything else you need to know.
What Is the SSA-1099 and SSA-1042S?
The SSA-1099 is a tax form sent annually by the SSA to people who receive Social Security benefits. It shows the total benefits received during the previous year and the amount, if any, withheld for taxes.
If you are a nonresident alien, you receive the SSA-1042S form instead, which serves the same purpose but is tailored for international tax requirements.
Note: If you only receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will not receive an SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S because SSI payments are not taxable.
How to Get Your SSA-1099/SSA-1042S Online
The fastest and easiest way to obtain a copy of your tax form is through the SSA’s my Social Security online portal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Go to the official SSA website
Visit the my Social Security portal at:
https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/ - Log in or create an account
- If you already have a my Social Security account, sign in using your username and password.
- If you don’t have an account, you can create one here. You’ll need to verify your identity with personal details like your Social Security number, birth date, and mailing address.
- Download your tax statement
- After logging in, look for the link titled “Replace Your Tax Form SSA-1099/SSA-1042S”.
- Choose the relevant tax year (usually the most recent year will appear at the top).
- Click Download to save or print the form.
Your SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S form will be available to download beginning February 1st each year for the previous tax year.
What If You Can’t Access It Online?
If you’re unable or unwilling to use the online portal, the SSA offers a couple of alternatives:
Request by Phone:
- Call the SSA customer service line at 1-800-772-1213.
- Say “ten ninety-nine” when prompted to reach the section for tax statements.
- Automated services are available 24/7, but live representatives are available from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
In-Person Request:
Due to reduced in-person services in some areas, it’s recommended to call ahead or schedule an appointment at your local SSA office. You can find your nearest office at:
https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp
Who Should Use the Online Option?
The online system is ideal for:
- Retirees and beneficiaries who prefer paperless access.
- Tax preparers or family members assisting someone with their return (with appropriate legal authorization).
- Anyone needing a replacement form quickly and securely.
It’s also a good opportunity to manage other benefits-related tasks through the same portal, such as updating your address, checking your benefits, or requesting a benefit verification letter.
Is It Safe to Use?
Yes. The my Social Security portal uses multi-factor authentication and secure encryption to protect your data. Once your identity is verified, your information is accessible only by you.
The SSA recommends that users log out completely and avoid accessing sensitive documents on public or shared computers.
Summary: Key Links You Need
- Create or access your account:
https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/ - Help with getting your SSA-1099:
https://www.ssa.gov/manage-benefits/get-tax-form-10991042s - Locate a Social Security office:
https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp - Frequently asked questions:
https://faq.ssa.gov/en-us/
Final Thoughts
Getting your SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S online is not only convenient but also significantly faster than waiting for a replacement in the mail. Whether you’re a retiree, survivor, or receiving disability benefits, ensuring you have the correct tax information is crucial for accurate filing—and now it’s just a few clicks away.
If you haven’t already, now’s a good time to create your my Social Security account and explore the range of services it offers—all from the comfort of your home.
Vikas is a seasoned finance writer with a keen eye for unraveling complex global financial systems. From government benefits to energy rebates and recruitment trends, he empowers readers with actionable insights and clarity. When he’s not crafting impactful articles, you can find him sharing her expertise on Social Media. You can connect with him via email at [email protected].
