The benefit verification letter, which is also known as a “budget letter,” “letter of benefits,” “letter of proof of income,” or “proof of award letter,” documents someone’s claim for Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicare. Because of that, it is often needed when one is filing for certain financial matters, government assistance programs, or verification of income purposes.
Who can request the verification letter?
If you are a beneficiary receiving Social Security benefits, SSI, or Medicare, you can request a benefit verification letter for yourself. If you are a representative payee for another individual, however, you can obtain this letter on their behalf.
How to request for a verification letter
There are different ways to request a benefit verification letter. The most common methods will be listed here:
Online request via my social security account
The benefit verification letter can be obtained the easiest and fastest through online services provided by the Social Security Administration:
1. Log into the my Social Security account
2. If you are requesting the letter for a beneficiary, navigate to Representative Payee Services.
3. Click on the Benefit Verification Letter on the right of the page.
4. The letter will appear immediately, and it can be printed or saved from there.
If you do not have an account yet, you may set one up on the SSA.gov website.
Phone request
If you would rather not do it online, you can call the Social Security Administration to request a verification letter.
- Phone Number: 1-800-772-1213
- TTY- Hearing Impaired: 1-800-325-0778
- Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-7:00 pm (Eastern Time)
You will receive the letter via mail about 10 business days after making the request.
Outside U.S. requests
For beneficiaries outside the U.S., you can request a verification letter through the Office of Earnings & International Operations. The office that serves your residence is listed on their page on the SSA.gov website.
Things to know
Before obtaining your letter, ensure that the address on file with the Social Security Administration is correct; this will stop any delays in receiving your letter. If it is not correct, please update the address before making your request.
Why you may need a verification letter
Usually, a verification letter of benefit is required when:
- You are applying for loans, mortgages, or rental agreements.
- You qualify for government assistance programs.
- You require proof of income for personal or legal purposes.
- You are verifying Medicare benefits and coverage.
Further support and information
For additional support, visit the Social Security Administration website at SSA.gov, where additional services, including accounts, benefit estimates, and updates to Social Security policies, can be found.
For information on all general U.S. government services, check out USA.gov.
Doing the above will allow for an easy and quick way of getting the verification letter that you require for your financial and personal needs.
