If you haven’t started gathering your tax documents yet, don’t worry. The IRS has set the deadline to file your 2024 tax return on April 15, 2025. To make the process smoother, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is reminding taxpayers how to easily get their 1099 or 1042S tax forms, which are essential for reporting Social Security income when filing taxes.
In this guide, we’ll explain why these forms are important, how to get them quickly, and what you should do if you live abroad or receive different types of Social Security benefits.
Why Do You Need Social Security Tax Forms 1099 or 1042S for the IRS?
The 1099 and 1042S tax forms are crucial because they help you report your Social Security income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) when filing your tax return. This income could include:
- Retirement benefits
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits
When you file your 2024 tax return, the IRS uses these forms to verify the amount of money you received from Social Security. Failing to report this income correctly could lead to tax issues, so it’s important to have the right forms.
Who Receives These Forms?
- Form SSA-1099: Sent to U.S. citizens and residents who receive Social Security benefits.
- Form SSA-1042S: Sent to non-U.S. citizens who receive Social Security benefits and may have taxes withheld.
Most people receive these forms by mail in January. However, if you’ve recently moved, experienced postal delays due to bad weather, or simply haven’t received your form, there’s no need to wait.
How to Get Social Security Tax Form 1099 or 1042S
You don’t have to wait for your tax form to arrive by mail. The fastest and easiest way to get your Form 1099 or 1042S is to download it online through your my Social Security account.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download Your Tax Form:
- Visit the Official Website:
Go to www.ssa.gov. - Sign In to Your Account:
- Click on “my Social Security”.
- If you don’t have an account, select “Create an Account” and follow the prompts.
- Download Your Form:
- Once logged in, click on “Replacement Documents”.
- Select “Get a Copy of Your 1099 or 1042S”.
- Download or print your form for free.
Having your forms ready will help you file your taxes faster and receive your IRS tax refund sooner, especially if you opt for direct deposit.
What If You Can’t Access the Forms Online?
Some people, such as military members or Americans living abroad, might face difficulties accessing their forms online. If this applies to you, here’s what you can do:
Contact the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU):
- Visit: https://www.ssa.gov/foreign/foreign.htm
- The FBU assists U.S. citizens abroad with Social Security services, including tax forms.
Alternatively, you can contact your local U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance with Social Security-related tax documents.
Do You Need a Tax Form If You Receive SSI?
If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you do not need a tax form. Here’s why:
- SSI payments are not taxable.
- The SSA does not issue Form 1099 or 1042S for SSI-only recipients.
If you receive both SSI and Social Security benefits, you’ll still receive a 1099 form for the taxable portion related to Social Security.
Important Tax Deadlines for 2024
- Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2025
- For Overseas Taxpayers: If you’re living abroad, you may qualify for an automatic extension until June 15, 2025, but interest on any unpaid taxes will still accrue from April 15.
Make sure to file and pay your taxes on time to avoid IRS penalties.
Don’t wait for your tax forms to arrive in the mail. Downloading your Form 1099 or 1042S from your my Social Security account is fast, easy, and free. This will help you file your taxes early and receive your refund faster, especially if you choose direct deposit.
Remember, the tax filing deadline is April 15, 2025. If you haven’t created a my Social Security account yet, now is the perfect time to do so. Stay organized, avoid penalties, and file your taxes with confidence.
For more information, visit www.ssa.gov or consult with a tax professional.
FAQ
What is Form SSA-1099?
Form SSA-1099 is a tax form that shows the total amount of Social Security benefits you received in a given year. It’s used to report your income when filing your tax return with the IRS.
How do I get a copy of my 1099 if I lost it?
You can download a replacement copy of your Form 1099 by logging into your my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov. It’s free and available anytime.
Do I need a 1099 form if I only receive SSI?
No, you don’t need a 1099 form if you only receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because SSI is not taxable. The SSA does not issue tax forms for SSI recipients.
What should I do if I live abroad and can’t access my 1099 or 1042S online?
If you live outside the U.S., contact the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) through https://www.ssa.gov/foreign/foreign.htm for assistance in obtaining your tax forms.
When is the deadline to file my 2024 tax return?
The deadline to file your 2024 tax return is April 15, 2025. If you’re living abroad, you may qualify for an automatic extension until June 15, 2025, but interest on any unpaid taxes will still accrue from April 15.