How to Request Your SSDI 1099-SSB

Social Security mails Form 1099-SSB (the tax form for SSDI benefits) automatically in January to everyone who received benefits in the prior year. You do not need to request it — it arrives without asking. If you did not receive one by early February, or if you need a replacement copy, you can request it through your Social Security account online, by phone, or by mail.

The fastest method is to create or log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. Once logged in, go to "Benefit Verification" and select "Get a Tax Form." You can view and print your 1099-SSB when ready. This option is available 24 hours a day and requires no phone call or waiting period.

If you do not have an online account, call Social Security's main line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask for a replacement 1099-SSB. Have your Social Security number ready. They will mail it to the address on file, which usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person with your ID to request a copy on the spot.

Key Takeaways

  • Social Security mails your 1099-SSB automatically each January for the prior year's benefits — you do not need to request the first copy.
  • The my Social Security online account lets you view and print your 1099-SSB when ready without calling or visiting an office.
  • If you need a replacement or did not receive your form by mid-February, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.
  • The form shows your total SSDI benefits for the year and is required to file your federal tax return if you owe taxes on those benefits.

What Information Is on Your 1099-SSB

Form 1099-SSB shows three key numbers. Box 1a lists your gross SSDI benefits for the year — the full amount Social Security paid you before any deductions. Box 1b shows any benefits that were withheld due to work earnings or other reasons. Box 2 shows the amount of your benefits that may be taxable, which depends on your other income and filing status.

The form also includes your name, Social Security number, and Social Security's tax identification number. Keep this form with your tax records for at least three years. If you file a joint return with a spouse, your spouse may need to see the form to calculate their portion of any combined income.

When You Receive Your 1099-SSB

Social Security is required to mail 1099-SSB forms by January 31 each year for the prior calendar year. For example, in January 2024, you receive the form showing all benefits paid in 2023. If you did not receive it by February 15, it is safe to assume it was lost in the mail and request a replacement.

If you moved during the year, Social Security may not have your current address. Update your address through my Social Security or by calling 1-800-772-1213 before January to may support the form reaches you. If you moved after the form was mailed, the post office may not forward it, so requesting a replacement online is faster than waiting.

Using Your 1099-SSB to File Taxes

Your 1099-SSB is the document your tax preparer or tax software needs to determine whether any of your SSDI benefits are taxable. The taxability depends on your combined income — a calculation that includes your SSDI benefits, wages, interest, dividends, and other sources. Not all SSDI recipients owe tax on their benefits; it depends on how much other income you have.

Attach a copy of your 1099-SSB to your federal tax return (Form 1040) if you are required to file. If you use tax software, it will prompt you to enter the information from the form. If you use a tax preparer, give them the original or a clear copy. Keep the original for your records.

If Your 1099-SSB Shows the Wrong Amount

If the amount on your 1099-SSB does not match what you believe you received, first check your Social Security benefit statement in your my Social Security account. The statement shows month-by-month payments and any withholding. If the statement matches the 1099-SSB but differs from what you remember, the form is likely correct — memory of payment amounts often drifts over a year.

If your benefit statement and the 1099-SSB disagree, or if you were overpaid and Social Security withheld the overpayment from your benefits during the year, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to report the discrepancy. They can issue a corrected 1099-SSB (Form 1099-SSB-C) if an error is found. Corrected forms are mailed by February 28 of the following year.

Requesting a 1099-SSB for a Deceased Beneficiary

If someone who received SSDI died during the year, Social Security still issues a 1099-SSB for the benefits paid through the month of death. The executor or surviving spouse can request this form by calling 1-800-772-1213 with the deceased person's Social Security number and a death certificate. The form is needed to file the final tax return for the deceased person's estate.

The 1099-SSB for a deceased person is mailed to the address on file unless you provide a different address. If the person's estate is being settled and you need the form quickly, visiting a local Social Security office with a death certificate may produce a copy faster than waiting for mail delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my 1099-SSB before January?

No. Social Security does not issue 1099-SSB forms until January 31 at the earliest, because the form must show the full year's benefits. If you need to file your taxes early, you can estimate your benefits using your benefit statement and file with an extension, then file the amended return once you receive the actual form.

What if I never received a 1099-SSB in the mail?

Check your my Social Security account first — you can view and print it there when ready. If you do not have an account, create one at ssa.gov. If you still cannot find it, call 1-800-772-1213 and request a replacement. Provide your current mailing address to may support it reaches you.

Do I need the 1099-SSB if I do not owe taxes?

You should still keep it with your tax records. If you file a return (even if you do not owe), you may need to attach it. If you are audited years later, the form proves what benefits you reported. Keep it for at least three years.

Can my tax preparer get my 1099-SSB directly from Social Security?

No. Social Security does not send forms to third parties. You must obtain the form yourself and provide it to your preparer. Your preparer can help you request it if you do not have an online account, but you are responsible for getting it.

What if I lost my 1099-SSB after filing my taxes?

You can request a replacement at any time by logging into my Social Security or calling 1-800-772-1213. Keep the replacement with your tax records. If you need it for an audit or other reason, Social Security can also provide a written statement of your benefits for that year.