If using the internet feels like a challenge, let your grandchild be your guide. You’ll get your business done online, and they’ll be proud to have helped their grandparent. Take advantage of your grandchild’s computer skills and navigate Social Security’s website together!

Once your grandchild has explained the basics of going online, you can use our website to find information and services for everything from benefit planning, to filing online, to replacing your lost Medicare card.

Open your own my Social Security account for easy access to benefit estimates. Your grandchild can help you navigate to www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to set one up. You can use our Benefit Planner tool at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners to learn if you’re eligible for benefits, eligibility requirements, payment rates, and other rules about receiving each type of benefit. And when you are ready to file for retirement or disability benefits, you can do it online! To apply for survivors benefits, you or your family will need to contact us by phone or visit an office.

Once you’re receiving benefits and have an account, you can continue to do business with us online with your my Social Security account. You can get a benefit verification letter, change your address or phone number, start or change direct deposit, get a replacement SSA-1099 for tax purposes, or check your benefits. In the District of Columbia and many states, you may be able to request a replacement Social Security card online. With the time you save by using our online services, you’ll have more to spend with your grandchild!

Make a date with your grandchild to visit www.socialsecurity.gov together.

Tags: benefit verification letter, my Social Security, my Social Security account, Social Security benefits