What an Award Letter Is and Why You Need It
Your Social Security Award Letter is an official document from the Social Security Administration that shows you have been approved for benefits and states the exact amount you will receive each month. It also lists your benefit start date and explains any deductions that will be taken from your payment.
You will need this letter to prove your benefit status to banks, landlords, healthcare providers, and government programs. Some programs — like Medicaid, housing information, or food support — require a current Award Letter to verify your income. If you have lost your original letter or need a replacement, the Social Security Administration can send you one by mail or you can view it online.
Key Takeaways
- Your Award Letter shows your monthly benefit amount, start date, and any deductions, and serves as proof of your Social Security status.
- You can view your Award Letter online through your personal my Social Security account without waiting for mail delivery.
- To request a replacement by mail, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office in person.
- Social Security sends Award Letters automatically when you are first approved, but you may need to request a new copy if yours is lost or outdated.
- Keep your Award Letter in a safe place and request updated copies whenever your benefit amount changes or when a program asks for current proof.
Viewing Your Award Letter Online
The fastest way to see your Award Letter is through your my Social Security account on the Social Security Administration website. Go to ssa.gov and select "Sign in to my Social Security." If you do not have an account, you can create one using your email address and Social Security number. The sign-in process includes identity verification steps to protect your information.
Once you are logged in, select "Benefit Verification" or "Award Letter" from the menu. Your current Award Letter will appear on screen. You can read it, print it, or save it as a PDF to your computer. This copy is official and accepted by most organizations that ask for proof of your benefits. Printing or saving a copy takes only a few minutes and avoids waiting for mail delivery.
Requesting a Replacement Award Letter by Mail
If you do not use the internet or prefer a printed copy mailed to your home, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will verify your identity and request a replacement Award Letter. The letter will be mailed to the address on file with Social Security, usually within 5 to 7 business days. If you need it faster, ask the representative whether your local office can print one for you to pick up in person.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security card if you have it. The office staff can print your Award Letter on the spot or mail one to you. To find your local office, go to ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the address and hours.
What Information Appears on Your Award Letter
Your Award Letter lists several key pieces of information. At the top is your name, Social Security number, and the type of benefit you receive — such as retirement, survivor, or disability. The letter states the date your benefits began and your monthly payment amount in large, straightforward-to-read text.
Below that, the letter explains any reductions to your payment. For example, if you are under full retirement age and still working, your benefit may be reduced. If you have a government pension from work not covered by Social Security, your benefit may be reduced under the Government Pension Offset or Windfall Elimination Provision. The letter also notes whether Medicare is deducted from your payment and lists any other adjustments. At the bottom, it provides contact information if you have questions about the amount shown.
When You Receive a New Award Letter
Social Security sends you an Award Letter automatically when your claim is first approved. You should receive it within 2 to 4 weeks after approval. If you do not receive one, contact Social Security to request it.
You will also receive a new Award Letter if your benefit amount changes. This happens when you reach full retirement age, when a cost-of-living adjustment takes effect each January, or when your circumstances change — such as if you return to work or if a dependent is added to your case. Social Security mails these updated letters automatically, but you can also request one at any time if you need current proof of your benefit amount.
Using Your Award Letter for Other Programs
Many organizations accept your Award Letter as proof of income and benefit status. Banks may ask for it when you open an account or explore for a loan. Landlords often request it to verify your income before renting to you. Medicaid, food support, housing information, and other government programs use it to confirm your Social Security income when you explore.
Some organizations accept a printed or saved copy from your my Social Security account. Others may ask for the original mailed letter or a certified copy. If an organization rejects your Award Letter, ask what specific information they need. If the letter is outdated — more than a year old — request a new one that shows your current benefit amount. Many programs update their records once a year, so having a recent Award Letter prevents delays.
Protecting Your Award Letter
Your Award Letter contains your Social Security number and benefit information, so keep it in a safe place. Store the original in a find location at home, such as a locked drawer or safe. If you keep copies at home, keep them with other important documents like your birth certificate and insurance papers.
When you share your Award Letter with banks, landlords, or government programs, you can provide a printed copy or save a digital copy to email. You do not need to give out the original. If your Award Letter is lost or stolen, request a replacement when ready by calling Social Security or visiting your local office. There is no cost to request a new copy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive an Award Letter in the mail?
Social Security typically mails Award Letters within 5 to 7 business days of your request. If you need it sooner, visit your local Social Security office in person — they can often print one for you when ready or mail it with expedited delivery.
Can I use a printed copy of my Award Letter from my online account?
Yes. A printed or saved copy from your my Social Security account is official and accepted by most banks, landlords, and government programs. You do not need to wait for a mailed copy unless the organization specifically asks for the original document.
What do I do if my Award Letter shows the wrong benefit amount?
Contact Social Security when ready at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Bring your Award Letter and any documents that support the correct amount, such as your earnings record or recent tax returns. A representative will review your case and issue a corrected letter if an error is found.
Do I need a new Award Letter every year?
You do not need to request one every year, but many programs ask for a current Award Letter — usually one dated within the past 12 months. Social Security sends you a new one automatically when your benefit amount changes. If your letter is older than a year and a program asks for current proof, request a new copy.
What if I cannot access my my Social Security account online?
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office in person. A representative can request a replacement Award Letter by mail or print one for you to take home. You do not need an online account to receive your Award Letter.