Social Security Backs Off Cellphone Requirement

"...After an outcry from older Americans, as well as a letter from two United States senators, the agency backed off the cellphone-based code requirement.

“Our aggressive implementation inconvenienced or restricted access to some of our account holders,” said a statement emailed by an agency spokesman, Mark Hinkle. “We are listening to the public’s concerns and are responding by temporarily rolling back this mandate.”

The change means users can log on to their online “mySocialSecurity” accounts as before, with just a username and password. If they want, they can choose the text option as added security feature, as has been the case since the accounts were first offered in 2012...."

Read more at The New York Times

Social Security Accounts Online Now Require Cellphone

"...For some seniors, their texting skills -- or lack thereof -- are locking them out of their Social Security accounts because of a new security measure added this week.


It's a security practice most of us are familiar with. When you enter your username and password, a text message with a code is sent to your phone. You then enter that code on the website to get access to your account.


In the case of the Social Security website, a new code is required each time you log in because it expires after 10 minutes. So if you don't have a cellphone that receives texts, you can no longer log in to your account...."

Read more at CNN Money

Social Security Statements Now Available Online

"...Up until last year, Social Security would send taxpayers an annual personalized statement showing a complete record of their taxable earnings as well as estimated retirement, disability and survivor benefits based on those earnings. Unfortunately, budget constraints brought on by the recession put an end to those yearly mailings.

But there's good news: Social Security has resumed mailing paper statements to workers 60 and older who aren't already receiving benefits. And, they recently launched a new Social Security Statement tool that allows you to access the same information online.

Once you've created a Social Security Account, you can log in anytime and:..."

Read more at huffingtonpost.com

Social Security Benefit Estimator

"...On May 1, Social Security launched a feature on its website, www.socialsecurity.gov, that allows workers to view an online version of their Social Security earnings and benefits statements. The program also allows you to estimate your retirement, disability and survivors benefits.

You can use this tool to show your kids how little you made when you started working (after you've reminded them that you walked 5 miles to get to school, without an iPod or cellphone). But more important, it can help you receive all of the benefits you're due, and make smart decisions about when to claim them..."

Read more at USATODAY.com