Did you know you can sign up to view your social security benefits statements online! Simply go to https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL/SiView.do and click on “Create an account” at the bottom of the page. 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
• 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. For example, you cannot create an account for another person:

• With whom you have a business relationship
• For whom you are a representative payee
• For whom you are an appointed representative

As a reminder, statements are sent to workers at ages 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60. The SSA stopped mailing most paper statements altogether, in 2011 in response to budget pressures, and saved the SSA $70 million annually - about 50 cents per mailed statement. They brought back paper statements at the above mentioned intervals last year however as the demand was overwhelming. The annual statement includes an estimate of monthly benefits at various claiming ages, and for disability claims. It explains how benefits are calculated, and displays the worker's history of income subject to Social Security tax. Going paperless however is very easy! Give it a try!