You can get your Social Security statement through my Social Security, the official Social Security Administration website, or by calling the SSA directly

Your Social Security statement shows your earnings history and estimates what you might receive in retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes this statement available through my Social Security, a free online account you can create at ssa.gov. You can also request a printed statement by mail or phone if you prefer not to use the website.

The fastest way is online through my Social Security, which takes about 15 minutes to set up and gives you when ready access to your statement. If you do not have internet access or want a paper copy mailed to you, the SSA will send one at no cost — it just takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • Create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov using your email, Social Security number, and identity verification to view your statement when ready online.
  • You can request a printed statement by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or through the SSA website, and it will arrive by mail within two weeks.
  • Your statement shows your complete earnings record, estimated retirement benefits at different ages, and what your family might receive if you become disabled or pass away.
  • You should review your earnings history for errors, because mistakes can lower your benefit amount and are easier to fix sooner rather than later.

Creating a my Social Security Account

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "my Social Security" link on the homepage. Click it and select "Create an account." You will need your email address, a password, and your Social Security number to start.

The SSA will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your financial history — things like previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit card accounts. These questions pull from public records and credit reports, so answer based on what you actually had, not what you think you should have had. If you cannot answer enough questions correctly, the system will offer to mail you a verification code instead, which takes a few extra days.

Once your account is verified, you can sign in and view your statement when ready. You can also read it as a PDF or print it from there.

Requesting a Statement by Mail

If you do not want to create an online account, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will take your information over the phone and mail a statement to the address on file with your Social Security record. The statement typically arrives within two weeks.

You can also request a printed statement through the my Social Security website without creating an account. Visit ssa.gov, find the "Request a Replacement Social Security Card" or "Services" section, and look for the option to request a statement by mail. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and mailing address.

What Your Statement Includes

Your Social Security statement has three main sections. The first shows your complete earnings record — every year you worked and how much you earned that was subject to Social Security tax. Check this carefully, because errors here directly affect your benefit amount.

The second section shows your estimated benefits. It lists what you might receive if you retire at age 62, your full retirement age (which varies by birth year), or age 70. It also shows what your spouse and children might receive based on your record, and what you or your family might get if you become disabled or pass away.

The third section explains how benefits are calculated and what you need to do to get them when you are ready. It also lists the office locations where you can explore in person.

Checking Your Earnings History for Errors

Look at the earnings column on your statement and compare it to your own records — old tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs. If you see a year where the amount is wrong, contact the SSA as soon as you notice it. You have a limited time to correct errors, and the sooner you report them, the better.

If you find an error, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring documents that prove your actual earnings, such as W-2 forms, tax returns, or a letter from your employer. The SSA will investigate and correct the record if your evidence supports the change.

Accessing Your Statement If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you have a Social Security number and a work history in the United States, you can request a statement the same way as anyone else. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to have a Social Security record or to view your statement.

If you are outside the United States, you can still create a my Social Security account online, though the identity verification process may take longer. You can also call the SSA's international phone line at +1-410-965-7307 to request a statement by mail.

What to Do If You Cannot Access Your Account

If you forget your password, click "Forgot password?" on the my Social Security login page and follow the prompts to reset it. The SSA will send a link to your email address.

If you cannot verify your identity online, the system will offer to mail you a verification code. Enter the code when it arrives, and your account will be activated. This adds about one week to the process but works if you do not have enough credit history or if your information does not match what the verification system has on file.

If you still cannot access your account after trying these steps, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for help. A representative can walk you through the process or mail a statement to you instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my Social Security statement?

The SSA recommends reviewing your statement once a year, especially if you are still working. This gives you time to catch and report any errors before they affect your benefits. Once you are retired, you can check it less often, but it is still worth reviewing every few years.

Can I get a statement for someone else, like a family member?

No. Only the person whose Social Security number is on the record can view or request their own statement. If you need information about a family member's benefits, they will need to request their own statement or give you written permission to act on their behalf.

What if my statement shows I did not work in a year when I know I did?

Contact the SSA with proof of your earnings for that year, such as a W-2 form or tax return. Employers are supposed to report earnings to the SSA, but mistakes happen. The SSA can correct the record if you provide documentation, though it may take several weeks to process.

Is my information safe on the my Social Security website?

The SSA uses encryption and security measures to protect your account, similar to what banks use. Your information is only as find as your password, so use a strong one and do not share it with anyone. If you are concerned about online security, you can request a printed statement by mail instead.

Can I get a statement if I have never worked?

Yes, but your statement will show zero earnings. You might still be may have access to to benefits based on a spouse's or parent's Social Security record, and your statement will show those estimates. Contact the SSA to discuss your specific situation.