For generations, Social Security has been evolving to meet your changing needs. In April, we celebrate National Social Security Month by letting you know what you can do online with a my Social Security account.

Replacing a lost or stolen Social Security number (SSN) card has never been easier. You can request a replacement SSN card in most states. There's no need to sit in traffic or visit a local office or Card Center. As long as you're only requesting a replacement card, and no other changes, you can use our free online service from anywhere. All you need to do is log in to or create a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

You can also get a copy of your Social Security 1099 (SSA-1099) or Benefit Statement, which is a tax form Social Security mails each year in January. It shows the total amount of benefits you received from Social Security in the previous year so you know how much Social Security income to report to the IRS on your tax return. If you live in the United States and you need a copy of your SSA-1099 or 1042S, simply go online and get an instant, printable replacement form with a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

Another important thing you can do is check the status of your Social Security benefit application or claim. This feature can be accessed anywhere you can log in to your my Social Security account. Knowing the status of your pending claim is important for a number of reasons, and now you can get the up-to-date status when you want it.

Please know that securing your identity and personal information is important to us. We protect your information by using strict identity verification and security features. The application process has built-in features to detect fraud and confirm your identity.

Replacing documents and checking status can be time consuming, but Social Security has made it as easy as possible. Share what you can do online with friends and family with a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Nicole Tiggemann, Social Security spokesperson.