Can You Get Earned Income Credit on Social Security?

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can indeed be a valuable tax break for low-to-moderate-income workers and families, and at income-partners.net, we’re dedicated to helping you understand how to maximize these financial opportunities, potentially boosting your income through strategic partnerships. Receiving Social Security or SSI doesn’t necessarily affect your eligibility for the EITC, offering a chance to reduce the taxes you owe or even increase your refund. Ready to explore how strategic collaborations can further enhance your financial standing? Learn about revenue-sharing partnerships, joint ventures, and affiliate programs.

1. What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)?

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit in the United States for low- to moderate-income working individuals and families. If you qualify, you can use the credit to reduce the taxes you owe – and possibly increase your refund. The EITC amount you might get generally depends on your earned income and the number of qualifying children you have.

The EITC is designed to supplement the income of working individuals and families, particularly those with children. It encourages and rewards work, reduces poverty, and provides crucial financial support. The credit is “refundable,” meaning that if the amount of the credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed, the taxpayer will receive the difference as a refund.

2. Am I Eligible for the EITC if I Get Social Security or SSI?

Yes, you are eligible for the EITC if you receive Social Security or SSI, but you must meet the qualifying rules of the EITC. Receiving Social Security or SSI doesn’t automatically disqualify you from claiming the EITC.

To be eligible for the EITC, you must meet certain requirements related to your income, filing status, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown:

2.1 Residency and Filing Status

Residency: You must have a main home in the United States for more than half of the tax year.
Filing Status: You can’t file as “married filing separately.” You must file as single, head of household, qualifying widow(er), or married filing jointly.

2.2 Income Requirements

Earned Income: The EITC is specifically for individuals and families with earned income. Earned income includes wages, salaries, tips, and net earnings from self-employment.
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): Your AGI must be below certain limits, which vary depending on your filing status and the number of qualifying children you have.
Investment Income: Your investment income must be $11,000 or less for the tax year 2024. Investment income includes taxable interest, dividends, capital gains, and rents.

2.3 Qualifying Child (If Applicable)

If you are claiming the EITC with a qualifying child, the child must meet certain requirements:

Relationship: The child must be your son, daughter, stepchild, adopted child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of any of them (e.g., grandchild, niece, nephew).
Age: The child must be under age 19 (or under age 24 if a full-time student) at the end of the year, or be permanently and totally disabled at any age.
Residency: The child must live with you in the United States for more than half of the tax year.
Joint Return: The child cannot file a joint return with their spouse, unless the only reason for filing is to claim a refund of withheld income tax or estimated tax paid.

2.4 Other Requirements

Social Security Number (SSN): You, your spouse (if filing jointly), and any qualifying children must have a valid SSN.
Not a Qualifying Child of Another Person: You cannot be claimed as a qualifying child by another person.
Form 8862: If you were denied the EITC in a previous year due to errors, you may need to file Form 8862, Information To Claim Earned Income Credit After Disallowance, with your tax return.

2.5 Impact of Social Security and SSI

Social Security Benefits: Social Security retirement, survivor, and disability benefits are generally not considered earned income for the EITC.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI payments are also not considered earned income for the EITC.

2.6 Example Scenario

Let’s say you receive Social Security retirement benefits and also work part-time, earning $15,000 in wages. If you meet all the other requirements for the EITC, such as having a qualifying child and meeting the income limits, you can claim the EITC based on your earned income from your part-time job.

2.7 Resources for Determining Eligibility

IRS EITC Assistant: The IRS provides an online tool called the EITC Assistant to help you determine if you are eligible for the EITC. This tool asks a series of questions about your income, family status, and other factors to assess your eligibility.
IRS Publication 596: This publication provides detailed information about the EITC, including eligibility rules, income limits, and how to claim the credit.
Tax Professionals: Consult with a tax professional who can help you understand the EITC rules and determine your eligibility based on your specific circumstances.

While receiving Social Security or SSI doesn’t automatically disqualify you, it’s essential to meet all the other requirements for the EITC to claim the credit successfully. Always refer to the latest IRS guidelines and resources to ensure accuracy and compliance.

3. Do My Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or SSI Payments Count as Earned Income for the EITC?

No, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments generally do not count as earned income for the purpose of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The IRS has specific guidelines on what qualifies as earned income, and these types of benefits typically do not meet the criteria.

To understand this better, let’s break down what qualifies as earned income and how SSDI and SSI are classified:

3.1 What Qualifies as Earned Income?

According to the IRS, earned income includes:

Wages, Salaries, and Tips: Money you receive from an employer for work performed.
Self-Employment Income: Net earnings from running your own business, whether it’s a full-time or part-time venture. This includes income reported on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) or Schedule F (Profit or Loss from Farming).
Union Strike Benefits: Payments received from a union during a strike.
Long-Term Disability Benefits Received Before Minimum Retirement Age: If you receive disability benefits before you reach the minimum retirement age, these may be considered earned income.

3.2 Why SSDI and SSI Don’t Qualify

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): These benefits are paid to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. SSDI payments are based on your prior earnings record.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): This is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources who are either age 65 or older, blind, or disabled. SSI is funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes.

The IRS does not consider SSDI or SSI payments as earned income because they are not derived from current work or self-employment. Instead, they are considered unearned income, which does not qualify for the EITC.

3.3 Exceptions and Special Cases

There are a few exceptions or special cases where disability payments might be considered earned income:

Disability Payments Received Before Minimum Retirement Age: If you receive disability payments from a private insurance policy or an employer-sponsored plan before you reach the minimum retirement age, these payments may be considered earned income. However, this does not apply to SSDI or SSI.
Work Activity: If you are receiving SSDI or SSI and also have earned income from working, you may be eligible for the EITC based on your earned income. In this case, only the income from work counts towards the EITC, not the disability payments.

3.4 Examples to Illustrate

Scenario 1: Receiving Only SSDI:
- John receives $1,200 per month in SSDI benefits. He has no other income.
- John is not eligible for the EITC because SSDI is not considered earned income.
Scenario 2: Receiving Only SSI:
- Mary receives $800 per month in SSI benefits. She has no other income.
- Mary is not eligible for the EITC because SSI is not considered earned income.
Scenario 3: Receiving SSDI and Working Part-Time:
- David receives $1,000 per month in SSDI benefits and also works part-time, earning $10,000 per year.
- David may be eligible for the EITC based on his $10,000 in earned income from part-time work, assuming he meets all other eligibility requirements. The SSDI benefits do not count as earned income.

3.5 How to Determine Eligibility

To accurately determine your eligibility for the EITC, follow these steps:

Calculate Your Earned Income: Add up all income that qualifies as earned income, such as wages, salaries, tips, and net self-employment income.
Determine Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): Calculate your AGI according to IRS guidelines. This is your gross income minus certain deductions.
Check the EITC Income Limits: Refer to the IRS’s EITC guidelines for the current tax year to see the income limits based on your filing status and the number of qualifying children you have.
Use the EITC Assistant: The IRS provides an online tool called the EITC Assistant to help you determine if you are eligible for the EITC.
Consult a Tax Professional: If you are unsure about your eligibility or have complex financial circumstances, consult a tax professional who can provide personalized advice.

3.6 IRS Resources

IRS Publication 596: This publication provides detailed information about the EITC, including eligibility rules and income limits.
IRS Website: The IRS website has a wealth of information on the EITC, including FAQs, forms, and publications.
EITC Assistant: An online tool to help you determine if you are eligible for the EITC.

In conclusion, while SSDI and SSI payments themselves do not count as earned income for the EITC, having these benefits does not automatically disqualify you from claiming the credit. If you have other sources of earned income, such as wages from a part-time job, you may still be eligible if you meet all the other requirements. Always refer to the latest IRS guidelines and seek professional advice when needed.

4. How Do I Claim the EITC?

To claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), you must file a federal income tax return and meet specific eligibility requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to claim the EITC:

4.1 Determine Your Eligibility

Before you start the process, ensure you meet all the requirements for the EITC. Key factors include:

Earned Income: You must have earned income from wages, salaries, tips, or self-employment.
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): Your AGI must be below the specified limit for your filing status and the number of qualifying children.
Filing Status: You cannot file as “Married Filing Separately.”
Residency: You must live in the United States for more than half the tax year.
Social Security Number (SSN): You, your spouse (if filing jointly), and any qualifying children must have a valid SSN.
Qualifying Child (If Applicable): If you have a qualifying child, they must meet the relationship, age, and residency tests.

4.2 Gather Necessary Documents

Collect all the necessary documents to accurately complete your tax return. These typically include:

Social Security Cards or Numbers: For you, your spouse (if filing jointly), and any qualifying children.
W-2 Forms: From your employer(s), showing your wages, salaries, and taxes withheld.
1099 Forms: If you are self-employed, you will need 1099 forms showing income received.
Records of Self-Employment Income and Expenses: If you are self-employed, keep detailed records of your income and expenses to accurately calculate your net profit or loss.
Form 1095-A: If you purchased health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you will need Form 1095-A.

4.3 Choose a Filing Method

You have several options for filing your federal income tax return:

Online Tax Software: Many online tax software programs, such as TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct, guide you through the filing process and help you claim the EITC. These programs are often user-friendly and can be accessed from your computer or mobile device.
Tax Professional: Hire a professional tax preparer, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA), to prepare and file your tax return. A tax professional can provide personalized advice and ensure you claim all eligible credits and deductions.
IRS Free File: If your income is below a certain threshold, you can use IRS Free File to file your taxes online for free. This program partners with several tax software companies to provide free filing services to eligible taxpayers.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): VITA is an IRS program that offers free tax help to individuals with low to moderate income, people with disabilities, and limited English proficiency. VITA sites are located throughout the country and are staffed by trained volunteers.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE): TCE is another IRS program that provides free tax help to individuals age 60 and older. TCE volunteers specialize in addressing tax issues unique to seniors, such as retirement income and Social Security benefits.
Paper Filing: You can download the necessary tax forms from the IRS website, complete them manually, and mail them to the IRS. However, this method is generally more time-consuming and prone to errors compared to electronic filing.

4.4 Complete Form 1040

Use Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to file your federal income tax return. Follow the instructions carefully and fill out all required information accurately.

4.5 Claim the Earned Income Tax Credit

To claim the EITC, you will need to complete Schedule EIC (Earned Income Credit) and attach it to your Form 1040. Schedule EIC asks for information about your qualifying child (if applicable) and helps you determine if you are eligible for the credit.

Qualifying Child Information: If you are claiming the EITC with a qualifying child, you will need to provide their name, Social Security number, and relationship to you.
EITC Worksheet: Use the EITC worksheet in the Form 1040 instructions to calculate the amount of your EITC. The amount of the credit depends on your income, filing status, and the number of qualifying children you have.

4.6 File Your Tax Return

Once you have completed Form 1040 and Schedule EIC, file your tax return by the filing deadline, which is typically April 15th of each year. If you need more time to file, you can request an extension by filing Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

E-Filing: If you are filing electronically, follow the instructions provided by your tax software or tax professional to submit your return to the IRS.
Mailing: If you are filing a paper return, mail it to the appropriate IRS address based on your state and filing status. You can find the correct address in the Form 1040 instructions.

4.7 Keep Records

Keep copies of all tax documents and your completed tax return for at least three years. These records may be needed if the IRS has questions about your return or if you need to amend your return in the future.

4.8 After Filing

After filing your tax return, you can track the status of your refund online using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This tool provides updates on the processing of your return and the expected date of your refund.

4.9 Additional Tips

Double-Check Your Information: Before filing your tax return, double-check all information to ensure it is accurate. Errors or omissions can delay the processing of your return and the issuance of your refund.
File Early: File your tax return as early as possible to avoid potential delays and to give yourself ample time to correct any errors if needed.
Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any aspect of the EITC or the tax filing process, seek help from a qualified tax professional.
Beware of Scams: Be cautious of tax scams and identity theft. The IRS will never contact you by email or social media to request personal or financial information.

Claiming the EITC can provide a significant financial benefit to eligible individuals and families. By following these steps and seeking professional help when needed, you can ensure you claim the credit accurately and receive the maximum refund you are entitled to.

5. What If I Have Questions About the EITC?

If you have questions about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), numerous resources are available to provide clarity and assistance. Here’s a comprehensive guide on where to find answers and get the help you need:

5.1 IRS Resources

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the primary source for information about the EITC. Here are some key IRS resources:

IRS Website:
- The IRS website (IRS.gov) is a comprehensive source of information on all tax-related topics, including the EITC.
- You can find FAQs, publications, forms, and other resources to help you understand the EITC rules and requirements.
IRS Publication 596:
- This publication, titled “Earned Income Credit (EIC),” provides detailed information about the EITC, including eligibility rules, income limits, and how to claim the credit.
- It is updated annually to reflect changes in tax laws and regulations.
IRS EITC Assistant:
- The IRS provides an online tool called the EITC Assistant to help you determine if you are eligible for the EITC.
- This tool asks a series of questions about your income, family status, and other factors to assess your eligibility.
IRS Forms and Instructions:
- You can download all the necessary tax forms and instructions from the IRS website.
- This includes Form 1040, Schedule EIC (Earned Income Credit), and related instructions.
IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs):
- The IRS operates Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) throughout the country where you can get in-person tax help.
- However, be aware that TACs typically require appointments, so check the IRS website for details and scheduling information.
IRS Phone Support:
- You can call the IRS toll-free at 1-800-829-1040 to speak with a representative who can answer your tax questions.
- However, be prepared for long wait times, especially during peak tax season.

5.2 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

The IRS sponsors two volunteer programs that offer free tax help to eligible individuals:

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA):
- VITA provides free tax help to individuals with low to moderate income, people with disabilities, and limited English proficiency.
- VITA sites are located throughout the country and are staffed by trained volunteers who can help you prepare and file your tax return and claim the EITC.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE):
- TCE provides free tax help to individuals age 60 and older.
- TCE volunteers specialize in addressing tax issues unique to seniors, such as retirement income and Social Security benefits.
- TCE sites are often located at senior centers and other community locations.

To find a VITA or TCE site near you, use the IRS’s VITA/TCE Site Locator tool on the IRS website or call the IRS toll-free at 1-800-906-9887.

5.3 Tax Professionals

If you have complex tax issues or prefer personalized assistance, consider hiring a professional tax preparer. Here are some options:

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs):
- CPAs are licensed professionals who have met rigorous education and testing requirements and are authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS.
- CPAs can provide a wide range of tax services, including tax preparation, tax planning, and tax representation.
Enrolled Agents (EAs):
- EAs are federally licensed tax practitioners who have passed an IRS exam or have worked at the IRS for at least five years.
- EAs are authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS and can provide tax preparation and planning services.
Other Tax Preparers:
- There are many other types of tax preparers, including those who are not licensed or certified.
- When choosing a tax preparer, be sure to check their credentials, experience, and reputation.

5.4 Nonprofit Organizations

Several nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost tax assistance to eligible individuals:

United Way:
- United Way partners with the IRS to offer free tax preparation services through its VITA program.
- Contact your local United Way to find VITA sites in your community.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide:
- AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides free tax assistance to taxpayers with low and moderate incomes, with a focus on those age 50 and older.
- Tax-Aide sites are located throughout the country and are staffed by trained volunteers.
Local Community Organizations:
- Many local community organizations offer free tax assistance to eligible individuals.
- Check with community centers, social service agencies, and religious organizations in your area to see if they offer tax help.

5.5 Online Resources

In addition to the IRS website, there are many other online resources that provide information about the EITC:

Tax Software Websites:
- Websites for tax software programs like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct often have extensive FAQs and help sections that address common EITC questions.
Financial Websites:
- Websites like NerdWallet, The Balance, and Investopedia have articles and resources that explain the EITC and other tax credits.
Government Websites:
- Websites for other government agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, may have information about how the EITC interacts with other government benefits.

5.6 Tips for Getting Your Questions Answered

Be Prepared:
- Before seeking help, gather all the necessary information, such as your income records, Social Security numbers, and other relevant documents.
- Write down your questions in advance so you don’t forget anything.
Be Specific:
- When asking questions, be as specific as possible about your situation.
- Provide details about your income, family status, and any other factors that may affect your eligibility for the EITC.
Keep Records:
- Keep records of all communications with the IRS, tax professionals, or other organizations.
- Note the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with, as well as a summary of the information you received.
Verify Information:
- Be sure to verify any information you receive from unofficial sources.
- Cross-check the information with official IRS resources to ensure it is accurate.

By utilizing these resources and following these tips, you can get your questions about the EITC answered and ensure that you claim the credit accurately.

6. Your Annual Social Security Benefit Statement

Your annual Social Security Benefit Statement, also known as Form SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S, is an important document that provides a summary of the Social Security benefits you received during the previous year. This statement is essential for filing your federal income tax return. Here’s a detailed look at what the Benefit Statement is, what you need to do with it, and how to obtain it:

6.1 What is the Benefit Statement?

The Benefit Statement is a tax form issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to individuals who received Social Security benefits during the previous calendar year. It provides the following key information:

Total Amount of Benefits Received: The total amount of Social Security benefits you received during the year, including retirement, survivor, and disability benefits.
Tax Withholdings: The amount of federal income tax withheld from your Social Security benefits, if any.
Recipient Information: Your name, address, and Social Security number.
Payer Information: The Social Security Administration’s name, address, and contact information.

There are two main types of Benefit Statements:

Form SSA-1099: This form is issued to U.S. citizens and residents who receive Social Security benefits. It reports the total amount of benefits received and any federal income tax withheld.
Form SSA-1042S: This form is issued to non-U.S. citizens who live outside of the United States and receive Social Security benefits. It reports the total amount of benefits received and any tax treaty benefits claimed.

6.2 What Do I Do With It?

The primary purpose of the Benefit Statement is to provide you with the information you need to report your Social Security benefits on your federal income tax return. Here’s what you need to do with it:

Verify the Information:
- Review the Benefit Statement carefully to ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name, address, Social Security number, and the total amount of benefits received.
- If you find any errors, contact the Social Security Administration immediately to request a corrected statement.
Report on Your Tax Return:
- Report the amount of Social Security benefits you received on your federal income tax return.
- Use the information on the Benefit Statement to complete the appropriate lines on Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
Determine Taxability:
- Determine whether your Social Security benefits are taxable. Not all Social Security benefits are subject to federal income tax.
- The taxability of your benefits depends on your total income, including your Social Security benefits and other sources of income.
- Use the worksheet in the Form 1040 instructions or IRS Publication 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, to determine whether your benefits are taxable.
File Your Tax Return:
- File your federal income tax return by the filing deadline, which is typically April 15th of each year.
- Include all required forms and schedules, including Form 1040 and any applicable schedules for reporting Social Security benefits.
Keep a Copy:
- Keep a copy of your Benefit Statement and your completed tax return for your records.
- These records may be needed if the IRS has questions about your return or if you need to amend your return in the future.

6.3 How Do I Get My Annual Benefit Statement?

The Social Security Administration provides several ways to obtain your annual Benefit Statement:

my Social Security Account:
- The easiest and most convenient way to get your Benefit Statement is to create a my Social Security account on the SSA website (SSA.gov/myaccount).
- With a my Social Security account, you can access your Benefit Statement online, view your earnings record, estimate your future benefits, and manage your Social Security information.
- To create a my Social Security account, you will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid email address.
Online Replacement:
- If you already have a my Social Security account, you can get your SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S instantly online.
- Simply log in to your account and navigate to the “Benefit Verification” section to access your Benefit Statement.
Mail:
- The Social Security Administration typically mails the Benefit Statement to your address on file each January.
- If you do not receive your Benefit Statement by mail, you can request a replacement online or by phone.
Phone:
- You can request a replacement Benefit Statement by calling the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213.
- Be prepared to provide your Social Security number and other identifying information to verify your identity.
Social Security Office:
- You can visit your local Social Security office to request a replacement Benefit Statement in person.
- However, be aware that Social Security offices may require appointments, so check the SSA website for details and scheduling information.

6.4 Important Considerations

SSI Recipients:
- If you only receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments, you will not receive a Benefit Statement.
- SSI payments are not taxable, so there is no need to report them on your federal income tax return.
Non-Citizens Living Outside the U.S.:
- If you are a non-U.S. citizen living outside of the United States and receiving Social Security benefits, you will receive Form SSA-1042S instead of Form SSA-1099.
- Form SSA-1042S reports the total amount of benefits received and any tax treaty benefits claimed.
Taxability of Benefits:
- The taxability of your Social Security benefits depends on your total income, including your Social Security benefits and other sources of income.
- If your total income exceeds certain limits, a portion of your Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income tax.
- Refer to IRS Publication 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, for more information on the taxability of Social Security benefits.

6.5 Resources for More Information

Social Security Administration Website:
- The SSA website (SSA.gov) is a comprehensive source of information about Social Security benefits and related topics.
IRS Website:
- The IRS website (IRS.gov) provides information about federal income tax and how to report Social Security benefits on your tax return.
IRS Publication 915:
- IRS Publication 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, provides detailed information on the taxability of Social Security benefits.
Tax Professionals:
- If you have questions about your Social Security benefits or how to report them on your tax return, consider consulting with a qualified tax professional.

By understanding your annual Social Security Benefit Statement and following these steps, you can accurately report your Social Security benefits on your federal income tax return and avoid potential issues with the IRS.

7. Remember to Check Your Earnings History

Checking your earnings history is a crucial step in ensuring the accuracy of your future Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) bases your retirement, disability, and survivor benefits on your lifetime earnings record. Therefore, it’s essential to verify that your earnings history is complete and correct. Here’s why and how to check your earnings history:

7.1 Why Check Your Earnings History?

Accuracy of Future Benefits:
- Your Social Security benefits are calculated based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which is derived from your earnings history.
- If your earnings history is inaccurate or incomplete, it can result in lower monthly benefit payments when you retire, become disabled, or when your survivors claim benefits.
Detecting Errors and Fraud:
- Checking your earnings history allows you to identify any errors, such as underreported earnings, incorrect information, or fraudulent activity.
- These errors can occur due to employer mistakes, identity theft, or other issues.
Planning for Retirement:
- Reviewing your earnings history helps you estimate your future Social Security benefits and plan for retirement.
- By knowing your estimated benefits, you can make informed decisions about your retirement savings, investments, and other financial planning strategies.

7.2 How to Check Your Earnings History

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides several ways to check your earnings history:

my Social Security Account:
- The easiest and most convenient way to check your earnings history is to create a my Social Security account on the SSA website (SSA.gov/myaccount).
- With a my Social Security account, you can access your earnings record online, view your estimated benefits, and manage your Social Security information.
- To create a my Social Security account, you will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid email address.
Social Security Statement:
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) generates a Social Security Statement each year, which provides a summary of your earnings history and estimated benefits.
- You can view your Social Security Statement online through your my Social Security account.
- The Social Security Statement includes the following information:
  - A summary of your earnings history, showing your reported earnings for each year you worked.
  - Estimates of your retirement, disability, and survivor benefits at various ages.
  - Information about Medicare and other Social Security programs.
Request a Copy by Mail:
- If you prefer to receive a paper copy of your earnings history, you can request one from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- You can request a copy by calling the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local Social Security office.

7.3 What to Look For

When reviewing your earnings history, pay close attention to the following:

Accuracy of Earnings:
- Verify that your reported earnings for each year match your W-2 forms and other income records.
- Check for any discrepancies or errors, such as underreported earnings, incorrect amounts, or missing years.
Completeness of Record:
- Ensure that your earnings history includes all the years you worked and paid Social Security taxes.
- If you notice any missing years, gather your income records and contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to correct the record.
Name and Social Security Number:
- Confirm that your name and Social Security number are correct on your earnings record.
- If there are any errors, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to update your information.

7.4 How to Correct Errors

If you find any errors in your earnings history, take the following steps to correct them:

Gather Documentation:
- Collect your W-2 forms, pay stubs, tax returns, and any other documents that support your correct earnings for the years in question.
Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA):
- Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to report the errors and provide them with your documentation.
- You can contact the SSA by phone, mail, or in person at your local Social Security office.
File Form SSA-7008:
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) may ask you to complete Form SSA-7008, Request for Correction of Earnings Record.
- This form