How Can I Get a Copy of My Social Security Statement?

Getting a copy of your Social Security Disability “general statement” usually refers to one of two documents: your benefit verification letter (proof of current income) or your Social Security statement (a summary of your earnings history and future estimates).

In 2026, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has made this process almost entirely digital. Here is how you can get these documents quickly and easily.

1. Get Your Benefit Verification Letter (Proof of Income)

If you need a statement to prove you are currently receiving disability benefits (for a loan, housing, or insurance), this is the document you need. It is sometimes called a “budget letter” or “proof of award.”

• Online (fastest): Sign in to your personal my Social Security account. Look for the Replacement Documents tab and select Get a Benefit Verification Letter. You can download and print the PDF instantly.
• By phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Use the automated system by saying “proof of income” to have a copy mailed to you.
• In person: You can visit your local Social Security office, though this is often the slowest method due to wait times.

2. Get Your Social Security Statement (Earnings History)

If you are looking for a summary of your lifetime earnings and an estimate of what your disability or retirement payments will be, you want your Social Security statement.

• Online: Log in to my Social Security. Your statement is available on the main dashboard. It includes a year-by-year breakdown of your earnings and the taxes you’ve paid.
• By mail: The SSA generally only mails these to workers age 60 and older who do not have an online account. If you need a paper copy and are younger than 60, you typically must print it from the website.

3. Get Your SSA-1099 (For Taxes)

If “general statement” refers to your annual tax statement showing how much you received in benefits last year:

• Log in to your online account and select Replace Your Tax Form SSA-1099/SSA-1042S. Note that for the 2025 tax year, these forms become available online starting February 1, 2026.

Note: When setting up your online account, you will likely need to verify your identity through Login.gov or ID.me. Have your state ID or driver's license ready to speed up the process.