Social Security recipients can get tax info online

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Baby Boomers and others receiving Social Security payments now have a new option if they lose some tax paperwork.

The Social Security Administration is kicking off a service that allows recipients to instantly view a replacement SSA-1099 online at www.socialsecurity.gov. The tax filer could print out that form and use it to prepare taxes. Form SSA-1099 is sent in January to those receiving Social Security benefits. It shows total benefits received for the previous year and is needed to file taxes.

Social Security receives 1.7 million requests each year for replacement forms. About 62.5 million tax-related forms are mailed out by Social Security. These include 1099s and the SSA-1042S for non-citizens living outside of the United States.

The online option can save a few steps and avoid the need to visit or call a Social Security office for a replacement 1099.

Carolyn Colvin, acting commissioner of Social Security, said in a statement that the agency is working to make it easier for people to do business from their homes or offices or a library.

"Beginning this tax season, any 'my Social Security' account holder who misplaces their original SSA-1099 will be able to request an instant replacement from our menu of online services," Colvin said.

Some tax preparers have warned that retirees sometimes lose the Social Security Administration's SSA-1099 because the forms arrive early in the season.

If you lost the form or did not receive it, you would be able to use the online option. You can still call 800-772-1213, but it would take about seven to 10 business days to receive a replacement in the mail. You can still visit a local Social Security office, too, for replacement copies.

For more stories about retirement, go to retirement.usatoday.com