Tax season is here, and if you receive Social Security benefits, you’ll need your annual Benefit Statement (SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S) to file your tax return. This form helps you report the total Social Security income you received in the previous year. If you’ve lost your statement or didn’t receive it, don’t worry—you can quickly get a replacement online, by phone, or through other available options.
What Is the Social Security Benefit Statement (SSA-1099/SSA-1042S)?
The Social Security Benefit Statement is an official tax document mailed every January to Social Security beneficiaries. It provides a summary of the total benefits received in the previous year and is necessary for filing taxes with the IRS.
- SSA-1099: Issued to U.S. citizens and residents receiving Social Security benefits.
- SSA-1042S: Issued to noncitizens who received or repaid Social Security benefits.
Who Doesn’t Receive an SSA-1099?
- If you only receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you won’t get this form because SSI payments are not taxable.
How to Get a Replacement SSA-1099/SSA-1042S Online
If you misplaced or never received your SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S, you can easily download a replacement through your my Social Security account. Here’s how:
- Log in to your personal my Social Security account.
- Click on “Replace Your Tax Form SSA-1099/SSA-1042S”.
- Use the “Choose a Year” dropdown menu and select the required tax year.
- Click on “Download” to instantly view, print, or save your form.
Replacement forms for the most recent tax year are available from February 1.
Tip: If you don’t have a printer, save the form on your computer or email it to yourself for easy access.
Creating a My Social Security Account
If you don’t have a my Social Security account, you can create one easily by visiting the Social Security website. Having an account lets you manage your benefits, request forms, and access other important Social Security services.
How Noncitizens Can Get a Replacement SSA-1042S
If you’re a noncitizen who received or repaid Social Security benefits, you’ll receive form SSA-1042S instead of SSA-1099. If you need a replacement:
- If you live outside the U.S., you can create a my Social Security account with ID.me credentials to access the form.
- If you cannot create an account, contact your local Federal Benefits Unit for assistance.
Requesting a Replacement SSA-1099/SSA-1042S by Phone
If you don’t have internet access or can’t create an online account, you can request a replacement form using the Social Security automated phone service:
Call: 1-800-772-1213 (available 24/7)
Say: “1099” when prompted by the automated system.
Availability: Forms are accessible after January 31 each year.
What Happens If a Beneficiary Passes Away?
If a person receiving Social Security benefits passes away before the end of the year or before receiving their SSA-1099, the form will be sent to their last known address on record. This form is required for filing any final tax returns, if necessary.
Replacing your Social Security Benefit Statement (SSA-1099/SSA-1042S) is now easier than ever. You don’t have to visit an office or wait on the phone. Instead, you can instantly download a replacement online through your my Social Security account. If you prefer, you can also use the automated phone system to request a copy. Noncitizens and those living abroad have alternative methods, such as using ID.me credentials or contacting their Federal Benefits Unit. With multiple convenient options available, you can quickly access your tax forms and stay prepared for tax season.
FAQ
What is the SSA-1099 form used for?
The SSA-1099 form provides the total Social Security benefits you received in the previous year. You use it to report Social Security income on your tax return.
How can I get a replacement SSA-1099 form?
You can get a replacement form by signing in to your personal my Social Security account and downloading the form. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to request it through the automated phone service.
What if I don’t have access to a printer?
If you don’t have a printer, you can save the SSA-1099 form on your computer, laptop, or email it to yourself to print it later.
Do noncitizens receive a different form?
Yes. Noncitizens who receive or repay Social Security benefits receive an SSA-1042S instead of SSA-1099.
What if the beneficiary has passed away?
If a Social Security beneficiary passes away, the SSA-1099 will be mailed to the last known address on their record for tax purposes.
