Social Security applicants to sign authorization electronically

Beginning in April, many people applying for Social Security disability benefits will be able to sign and submit the "Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security" form electronically. Adults applying for disability benefits will "click and sign" the form as part of the online application process, immediately making the form part of Social Security's electronic disability folder. This eliminates the need for the applicant to print, sign, mail or deliver a paper copy to a Social Security office.

Social Security will continue to take the appropriate steps to verify the identity of the signer and to protect the information and records received. Applicants also receive a copy of the electronically signed and dated form for their records.

The Social Security Administration states that accepting electronic forms will help speed the application process and can result in Social Security paying benefits to qualified beneficiaries more quickly, as well as providing Medicare and Medicaid coverage faster. Initially, Social Security will offer this new process only to adults applying online for disability benefits on their own behalf, but will be expanded to other applicants over time.

For more information: New Electronic Signature Process for Form SSA-827 Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security