Social Security makes major change that could benefit tens of millions

WASHINGTON — If you’re one of the 97 million Americans with a mySocialSecurity account, a recent update to the platform is expected to make it much easier to access your personal information.

Last month, the Social Security Administration announced several updates to the service, giving users 24/7 access to their account. The SSA says the new features include being able to:

Request a replacement Social Security card online at any time. View your claim status.Use the Retirement Calculator.View your online Social Security Statement with age-based and earnings-based fact sheets.View your Benefit Verification Letter.View your form SSA-1099.

The SSA says the update also improved several features that were previously available, including the ability to:

View your benefits and payment information.View your voluntary tax withholding information.Read messages in the Message Center.View your direct deposit information.View your current address information.View and update your preference selection.View and update special notice options.Access the Upload Documents tool.Access i454 for Continuing Disability Reviews.View your appointed representative payee selection.

According to the SSA, a mySocialSecurity account can be used to “conduct much of your Social Security business online.” If you do not already receive benefits, the account allows users to get personalized retirement benefit estimates for themselves and their spouse, obtain proof that they are not receiving benefits, and check their application status.

For those already receiving benefits, the account makes it easier to set up or change direct deposit, get a Social Security 1099 (SSA-1099) form, print a benefit verification letter and change your address.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.