Ask the Experts: How can I get an estimate of my Social Security benefits?
Every year, about three months before your birthday, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will mail you a Social Security Statement that summarizes your earnings and estimates your future benefits. This statement is a valuable resource for financial planning purposes because it contains information about all the Social Security benefits you or your family members may qualify for, including disability, survivor’s, and retirement benefits. It’s a good idea to keep a copy of your Social Security Statement with your financial records.
Some people do not automatically receive a Social Security Statement—individuals under age 25, or those who are already receiving benefits, for example. But anyone can request a Social Security Statement at any time by contacting the Social Security Administration online at www.socialsecurity.gov or by calling 800-772-1213. You can also fill out a request form at your local Social Security office. Once you receive your statement, make sure that it accurately reflects:
Your name
Your date of birth
Your Social Security number (last four digits will be shown)
The years you’ve worked
Your earnings history
Occasionally, mistakes happen, so report any incorrect or missing information to the SSA as soon as possible.
Upon request, the SSA can also prepare a Social Security Statement that reflects your own assumptions about your future earnings. Or, you can generate a quick estimate by plugging your earnings into one of the “Benefits Planner” calculators available on the SSA website.