Social Security recipients can now get their benefits verification letter and conduct other business online, as part of enhanced Web services introduced on January 7, 2013 by the federal government.
The letters, which state the amount of the recipient’s monthly benefit, may be used to verify income for affordable housing programs. The letters are now available online for those who are retired and receiving Social Security, as well as those who receive Supplemental Security Income, which pays benefits to those who are disabled.
Recipients can also change their address and manage electronic delivery of their monthly benefits payment on line.
The availability of the letters and the other options represent the first “significant expansion” of the agency’s online service, known as mySocialSecurity, since it debuted in the spring of 2012.
To access information online users must set up an account, which requires them to answer questions to verify their identity before choosing a user name and password. Users can also opt for enhanced security, which requires providing additional information–such as a partial credit-card number. The system’s verification system has been set up to balance convenience with the need for protecting an individual’s privacy. About three million people have created accounts so far.
Previously, recipients seeking benefits verification letters had to wait for one to arrive in the mail or visit a Social Security office in person. Last year, the agency processed about nine million requests for such letters.
Verification letters are separate from the annual notification to Social Security recipients of any increase in their benefits due to cost-of-living adjustments.
Managers of affordable housing properties should be aware of this new service and should inform residents and applicants of this program.