How Do I Get My Social Security Statement in NJ or Pennsylvania?

Your Social Security Statement is a secure, official record of your earnings and estimated disability benefits. These statements are important to check and review, because they will help to give you a more accurate idea of the benefits you might qualify for in the future. In this article, our Pennsylvania disability lawyers explain everything you need to know about Social Security benefits statements, including what they cover, when you will begin to receive them, how frequently you should receive them, how you can access your statement, and what to do if you need help applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in New Jersey or Pennsylvania.

What is a Social Security Benefit Statement?

A Social Security Statement is an SSA form that covers key information about:

• Your wages and earnings
• Your future eligibility for SSDI and other Social Security benefits

You may be wondering, “What is SSDI?” Social Security Disability Insurance is a type of federal disability benefit that is available nationwide to qualified applicants. In order to qualify for SSDI benefits in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, you must have evidence of a serious, long-term medical condition that limits your daily activities, such as cancer, asthma, or a heart condition. You must also have a work history, because the SSA requires all SSDI applicants to possess a minimum number of “work credits.”

You earn work credits by working and earning income: up to one credit per quarter, for a total of four credits per year. Most people need 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI, but exceptions may apply to young applicants. (For help applying for disability benefits for children, contact our Pennsylvania childhood disability lawyers right away.) Once you have earned a sufficient number of work credits, you may be eligible to receive SSDI benefits if you also have a serious health condition.

At What Age Do You Receive Social Security Statements?

Social Security Statements are not just for seniors. Individuals age 25 or older also receive Social Security Statements, which not only contain information about earnings and SSDI eligibility, but also show how much you have paid toward federal Medicare and Social Security taxes in the past. Since Social Security Statements are free to access and contain useful tax and financial information, it’s a good idea to pay attention to yours, regardless of your health or age.

How Often Do You Get a Social Security Statement?

Social Security Statements are generally issued at five-year intervals. Unless an administrative error occurs, you should receive your statement once every five years, generally about three months before your birthday. For example, if your birthday is June 1, you should receive your Social Security Statement around March 1. If you believe that an error has occurred or need help with any aspect of the SSDI application process, contact our Pennsylvania or New Jersey disability attorneys for help in a free consultation.

Does Social Security Send Paper Statements?

Until recently, the SSA issued paper Social Security Statements. In 2017, the SSA announced a new internet system, which allows you to view your Social Security Statement online.

While most people have shifted to using the online system, which is fast and secure, the SSA still mails out paper statements to certain individuals. You will receive your Social Security Statements in the mail if:

1. You are 60 or older
2. You are not currently receiving SSDI benefits or SSI benefits
3. You have not created an online Social Security account (known as a “my Social Security” account)

Can I Get My Social Security Statement Online?

As long as you have internet access, you can view your personal Social Security Statement online. Most people find this to be a convenient method, since online statements can be instantly accessed from anywhere in the world.

Before you can view your Social Security Statement online, you will have to create an internet Social Security account, if you have not done so already. You can create or log in to your account by following this link, which brings you to the official SSA website.

If you already have an account, you will be prompted to enter your username and password. If you have not created an account, you can make one for free by supplying some basic information, which the SSA will store securely.

SSDI Disability Lawyers Serving Pennsylvania and NJ

Whether you are applying for SSDI for the first time, or your claim has already been denied and you wish to file an appeal, the Berks County disability lawyers of Young, Marr, Mallis & Associates are here to help. With over 30 years of experience serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania, we provide strategic, effective representation designed to increase your odds of success. Our goal is to get you the benefits you need, when you need them. To learn more about how we can assist with your disability claim, contact us online for a free legal consultation, or call Young, Marr, Mallis & Associates at (215) 515-2954 to get started.