What forms Social Security uses in late December

Social Security does not release a special set of forms in December or change which forms you need based on the calendar date. The forms available to you depend on what you are doing — whether you are explore for retirement benefits, reporting a change, requesting a replacement card, or something else entirely. December 26 has no significance to Social Security's form schedule or important date.

If you are looking for a specific form because you received a notice from Social Security dated around December 26, that notice should tell you which form to use. If you are planning ahead for year-end reporting or a January process, the forms you need are the same ones available right now.

Key Takeaways

  • Social Security does not issue special forms on December 26 or any other specific date; the forms you need depend on what transaction you are completing.
  • If you received a Social Security notice, it will name the form you need and often includes the form itself or a link to it.
  • You can read most Social Security forms from ssa.gov or request them by phone at 1-800-772-1213.
  • Year-end changes like income reporting or address updates use the same forms available year-round.
  • If you are unsure which form matches your situation, Social Security's website has a form finder tool organized by topic.

How to find the right form for what you need to do

Social Security organizes forms by the action you want to take. If you are reporting a change — such as a new address, a name change, or a return to work — you use one set of forms. If you are explore for benefits for the first time, you use different forms. If you are requesting a replacement Social Security card or a benefit verification letter, those are separate forms again.

The fastest way to find your form is to visit ssa.gov and use the form search tool. You enter what you need to do, and the site shows you the form number, what it is called, and whether you can fill it out online or must print and mail it. You can also call Social Security's main line at 1-800-772-1213 and tell them what you are trying to do; they will tell you the form name and number and can mail it to you if you do not have internet access.

Common forms people need near year-end

If you are working and earning income, you may need to report that to Social Security, especially if you are receiving retirement or disability benefits. The form for this is SSA-777, the "Earnings Test Statement." You use it to report your expected earnings for the year or to report actual earnings if the year has ended. This form is often needed in December or January if your work situation changed during the year.

If you have had a change in your living situation, income, or family status, you may need SSA-795, the "Statement Regarding Your Earnings." This is a simpler form for reporting income changes. If you are reporting a change of address, you do not need a form at all — you can update your address online through your my Social Security account or by calling Social Security directly.

If you are explore for retirement benefits and want to start them in January, you would use SSA-1, the "process for Retirement Insurance Benefits." This form can be completed online through my Social Security, by phone, or on paper. The same applies if you are explore for spouse's or survivor's benefits — each has its own form number, and Social Security will tell you which one when you call or visit the website.

Where to get forms and how to submit them

Most Social Security forms are available in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online route is usually fastest. You can read a PDF, fill it out on your computer or by hand, and either mail it or bring it in person.

Many forms can now be completed and submitted entirely online through my Social Security, the account portal Social Security maintains. If you do not have an account, you can create one at ssa.gov. Once you are logged in, you can see which forms are available to complete online and submit them directly without printing or mailing.

If you prefer to mail a form, print it, sign it, and send it to the address listed on the form itself. Processing times vary depending on the form and how busy Social Security is, but most forms take two to four weeks to process after they arrive. If you are working with a important date — such as needing benefits to start on a specific date — mention that when you submit the form or call to follow up.

What to do if you received a notice from Social Security

If you received a notice from Social Security dated around December 26 or any other date, that notice is the most reliable guide to what you need to do. Social Security notices include the form number you need, instructions for completing it, and where to send it. The notice will also tell you the important date for responding, if there is one.

Do not ignore a Social Security notice, even if it seems routine. Notices about earnings, benefit changes, or required reporting are sent for a reason, and missing a important date can affect your benefits. If you do not understand what the notice is asking, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and read the notice to them; they can explain what form you need and help you fill it out over the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is December 26 a important date for any Social Security forms?

December 26 is not a standard important date for Social Security forms. If you received a notice with a important date, that important date will be printed on the notice itself. Year-end important date for reporting earnings or income typically fall on December 31 or in early January, depending on your situation and what Social Security has asked you to report.

Can I fill out Social Security forms online?

Many Social Security forms can be completed online through my Social Security or submitted online after you print and sign them. Not all forms have an online option yet. When you search for a form on ssa.gov, the site will tell you whether you can complete it online, print it, or must submit it by mail or in person.

What if I do not know which form I need?

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and describe what you are trying to do. A representative will tell you the form number, what it is called, and how to get it. You can also visit ssa.gov and use the form finder tool, which asks you questions about your situation and shows you the matching form.

How long does it take Social Security to process a form?

Processing time depends on the form and how busy Social Security is. Most forms take two to four weeks after they arrive. If you are working with a important date or need to know the status of a form you submitted, call Social Security and have your Social Security number ready.

Do I need to print a form or can I submit it digitally?

If the form is available online through my Social Security, you can usually submit it digitally without printing. If you are mailing a form, you must print it, sign it by hand, and mail it to the address on the form. Some Social Security offices accept forms in person if you prefer to hand-deliver them.