Source: Social Security Matters, September 5, 2024

We’ve heard your preference to do business with us electronically. You want to submit forms, evidence, and other information online. If your signature is needed, you want to be able to sign documents electronically before submitting them.

We’ve released the eSignature/Upload Documents as an option to submit documents. This new, online service option allows our representatives to electronically request, and our customers to electronically submit, 50 forms and nearly 80 types of evidence. The information we ask you to provide is necessary to process applications and other transactions. 

This option eliminates the need to mail, fax, or deliver information to a local Social Security office. By streamlining our document submission process and reducing mail, we are improving your experience. 

How Does it Work?  

1. Our representatives send customers a link with the request for the forms and/or evidence we need to process their application.
2. The customer authenticates by signing in to, or creating, their personal my Social Security account, reviews the request, completes the form, electronically signs (when signatures are required), and uploads the completed forms and/or any supporting evidence.   

No more mailing or faxing certain evidence or forms, and fewer trips to the Social Security office… it’s that easy!    

Note: Customers have 30 days to electronically submit requested information and may receive an email reminder. If the electronic request expires, you can contact our office to ask for a new request or submit the forms and information by mail, fax, or by visiting an office.    

To learn more, visit our Frequently Asked Questions. 

Online Forms and Signature Removal

In addition to the eSignature/Upload Documents option, we are converting many of our frequently used forms to more convenient online versions. Customers will have the option to complete a user-friendly, fillable online form, then electronically sign and submit it and some now don’t require a signature at all.

There are more than 30 forms available that can be signed electronically, which represents 90% of the most commonly used forms by Social Security customers in our local offices. One of our most used forms, the SSA-827, Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security Administration, is now available to sign and submit electronically. Other frequently used forms available to sign and submit electronically include:   

• SSA-820/821, Work Activity Reports.  
• SSA-632, Request for a Waiver of Overpayment Recovery.  
• SSA-634, Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate.    

We have removed the signature requirement entirely for 12 of our most commonly used forms. Some of the forms include: 

• SSA-L4201, Employer Requesting Wage Information 

• SSA-789, Request for Reconsideration/Disability Cessation Right to Appear 

You may also upload many of these forms online, further reducing your burden. We are considering removal of signature requirements on other forms as well.

What Do These Changes Mean for You?

• They help speed up processing, which means faster access to benefits and services.  

• They expand service options for people with disabilities and people in rural communities by eliminating the need to physically visit an office.  

• They reduce the risk of documents being lost in the mail.

• They better protect and safeguard personal information.   

Check out this update from Commissioner O’Malley and view our press release to learn more.

Watch the YouTube video on how to remove signature from SSA Forms

Visit Social Security Matters Blog Post