By HILLARY HATCH,

Social Security Public

Affairs Specialist

The holiday season often brings us feelings of warmth and joy.

At Social Security, we want you to know we share the same joy when it comes to serving you, whether it be online, by telephone or in person.

Our online services are available to help you do business with us in an easy, convenient, and secure way. It all starts with a personal My Social Security account. More than 71 million people have signed up for their personal account.

You can create a personal My Social Security account to:

— Apply for retirement, spouse or disability benefits.

— Apply for Medicare.

— Check your application or appeal status.

If you receive benefits, you can use your personal My Social Security account to:

— Change your address (Social Security benefits only).

— Change your direct deposit information (Social Security benefits only).

— Instantly get proof of benefits.

— Print your SSA-1099.

If you do not receive Social Security benefits, you can use a personal My Social Security account to:

— Get personalized retirement, spouse or disability benefit estimates.

— Get your Social Security Statement.

— Get instant proof that you do not receive benefits.

You can use our services on-the-go or from the comfort of your home. Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount online to view the services available to you. We want you to have a safe, happy holiday season and know that we are here for you.