Do you currently receive disability benefits through the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA)? Or, do you plan on applying for Social Security disability benefits?
Strongly consider setting up a my Social Security (or mySSA) account if so. Setting up your digital account can simplify many disability benefits processes.
What Can I Do In A my Social Security Account?
Anyone with a my Social Security account can use their account to request a replacement Social Security card.
Someone who isn’t yet receiving disability benefits can use their account to:
- Get personalized estimates for retirement benefits
- Estimate a spouse’s benefits
- Get documentation showing they aren’t receiving benefits
- Check the status of their disability benefits application
- Get a Social Security Statement
If someone already is receiving disability benefits, they can use a mySSA account to:
- Set up direct deposit
- Change direct deposit information
- Get a 1099 form
- Opt out of mailed services to switch entirely to email/digital
- Get and print a benefit verification letter
- Change their address
This highlights an important point: The way you use a my Social Security account can change and develop as your needs change.
How Can I Use my Social Security Account When Applying For Disability?
You can apply for Social Security benefits through the SSA’s website without a mySSA account. However, your My Social Security account can serve many purposes when you’re applying for disability. Noteworthy examples include:
- Gathering proof that you don’t already receive benefits, which may be necessary during the early stages of the application process
- Checking not only on the status of an initial application, but on the status of an appeal if the SSA denies your initial application
- Changing basic information (such as contact information) more easily and conveniently than you otherwise could
Those are just a few examples. What’s important to remember is that a mySSA account is, to a degree, a personalized tool. How you use it may depend on the specifics of your needs and circumstances.
How To Create a my Social Security Account
The process of creating a my Social Security account can vary depending on certain details. If you already have a Login.gov or ID.me credential, you can use either of those service providers to create a mySSA account.
If you don’t have a Login.gov or ID.me credential, visit the my Social Security page of the SSA’s website to get started. Select the option to create an account, and follow the prompts. Currently, the SSA prompts new users to create Login.gov credentials, as Login.gov is the SSA’s preferred service provider. Be aware, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number when signing in.
Get in Touch With A Disability Lawyer
A mySSA account can be very helpful when applying for benefits. However, the application process itself can overwhelm some.
That doesn’t need to happen. With a disability lawyer handling your case, you may improve your chances of getting an approval from the SSA on your first try. In addition, if the SSA has already denied your initial application, a disability lawyer can assist with your appeal. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation to get connected with an independent lawyer who may be able to help your case.
