How to Get a 1099-SSA Form From Social Security

You request a 1099-SSA directly from Social Security, not from your bank or tax software

Social Security does not automatically send you a 1099-SSA (the form that reports your benefits as taxable income). You have to ask for it. The form shows how much you received in benefits during the tax year and how much was withheld for taxes, if anything. You can request it by phone, mail, or online through your Social Security account.

The 1099-SSA is separate from other 1099 forms you might receive. Your bank will not send it. Tax software will not generate it for you. Social Security is the only source.

Key Takeaways

• Social Security mails 1099-SSA forms by January 31 each year, but you can request one earlier if you need it before then.
• You can request a 1099-SSA by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, by mail, or through your my Social Security account online.
• The form shows your total benefits received and any federal income tax withheld, which you need to file your tax return accurately.
• If you did not receive your 1099-SSA by early February, contact Social Security to request a replacement or check your online account.

Request your 1099-SSA by phone

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Have your Social Security number ready. Tell the representative you need a 1099-SSA for the tax year you are filing. They will mail it to the address on file with Social Security.

Phone lines are typically less busy before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m. on weekdays. The call is free. Social Security representatives can also answer questions about whether your benefits are taxable and how much was withheld.

Request your 1099-SSA online through my Social Security

If you have a my Social Security account, you can view and print your 1099-SSA without calling. Go to ssa.gov and sign in. Click on "Benefit Verification" or "1099 Tax Statement" (the exact wording varies by account). You can print it when ready or request that Social Security mail you a copy.

Creating a my Social Security account takes about 10 minutes and requires your email address, a phone number, and proof of identity. Once set up, you can check your account anytime to see your benefits and tax forms. This is the fastest way to get your 1099-SSA if you need it before the mail arrives.

Request your 1099-SSA by mail

Write to Social Security at the address for your state. Include your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and the tax year you need the form for. Mail it to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the correct address on ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Mailed requests take longer than phone or online requests — typically two to three weeks. Use this method only if you cannot call or access your online account.

When Social Security sends 1099-SSA forms automatically

Social Security mails 1099-SSA forms to all beneficiaries by January 31 each year. If you received benefits during the previous calendar year, you should receive one. The form covers January 1 through December 31 of that year.

If your address changed during the year, the form may go to an old address. If you moved, contact Social Security to update your mailing address. If you did not receive your form by early February, request a replacement by phone or through your online account.

What information is on your 1099-SSA

The 1099-SSA shows three key numbers. Box 1 is the total benefits you received during the year. Box 2 is the federal income tax withheld from those benefits (if you chose to have taxes taken out). Box 3 is the amount of your benefits that are taxable — this is what you report on your tax return.

The form also shows your name, Social Security number, and Social Security's tax identification number. You will need this information when you file your tax return. If any number looks wrong, contact Social Security to request a corrected form.

What to do if your 1099-SSA shows the wrong amount

If the total benefits or tax withheld does not match your records, contact Social Security before you file your tax return. Call 1-800-772-1213 or log into your my Social Security account to review your payment history. Social Security can issue a corrected 1099-SSA if there was an error in their records.

Keep your 1099-SSA with your tax records. If the IRS questions your return, you will need to show that the income reported matches what Social Security reported to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a 1099-SSA to file my taxes?

If you received Social Security benefits during the year, you need the 1099-SSA to file accurately. The form tells you how much to report as income. Even if your benefits are not taxable, you may still need the form to prove that to the IRS.

Can I get a 1099-SSA for a year I already filed taxes?

Yes. You can request a 1099-SSA for any prior year. Call Social Security or use your online account. If you filed without the form and now need to correct your return, you can file an amended return (Form 1040-X) using the corrected 1099-SSA.

What if I received benefits but no 1099-SSA arrived?

Contact Social Security by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or check your my Social Security account. They can print a replacement or mail one to you. If your address changed, update it with Social Security first so the form goes to the right place.

Is the 1099-SSA the same as a 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC?

No. The 1099-SSA is only for Social Security benefits. A 1099-MISC reports miscellaneous income like rental payments or prizes. A 1099-NEC reports self-employment income. You will receive different forms depending on your income sources.