A Worthwhile New Year’s Resolution: Check Your Social Security Statement

It’s a new year and a new beginning, so resolve to do yourself and your family a favor by checking your Social Security Statement. It’s a quick and easy process and it’s all online.

“The Statement has important Social Security information and, if applicable, estimates of your future benefits,” according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). “If you are working, we encourage you to check your Statement yearly to make sure your earnings record is correct. The Statement also will help in planning your financial future.”

To review your most recent Statement, surf your way to www.socialsecurity.gov/signin and sign into your account. If you don’t already have an account, it’s easy to create one and it just takes a few moments. To sign up, ssa.gov says, “You must be able to verify some information about yourself and:

• Have a valid E-mail address,
• Have a Social Security number,
• Have a U.S. mailing address, and
• Be at least 18 years of age.

You can only create an account using your own personal information and for your own exclusive use. You cannot create an account on behalf of another person or using another person’s information or identity, even if you have that person’s written permission.”

Another benefit of the online Statement? You’re “going green” and SSA will no longer have to periodically mail paper statements. One final reminder: SSA requires that you change your password every six months.