Social Security digitizes, removes signature requirements for several forms

(NewsNation) — The Social Security Administration is making it easier for millions of Americans to sign and submit forms.

More than 30 forms will no longer require a physical signature, the agency announced last week. Instead, the agency will allow the documents to be signed digitally. For 13 other forms, signature requirements have been removed entirely.

The new changes eliminate the need to mail, fax, or go into a local Social Security office.

"Across forms that Americans use most often, we’re eliminating as many pain points as possible, from helping people sign at the click of a button to reducing the need to drive or mail something in whenever possible," Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security, said in a release.

The 30 forms that will now accept an electronic signature represent about 14 million signed forms submitted each year, the agency said.

"This means faster and more error-free processing and better service for our customers, who deserve a government that meets their needs efficiently and effectively,” O'Malley said.

These are some of the common forms that can now be signed and submitted electronically:

• SSA-827, Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security Administration
• SSA-820/821, Work Activity Reports
• SSA-632, Request for a Waiver of Overpayment Recovery
• SSA-634, Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate

Here are a few of the forms that no longer require any signature:

• SSA-787, Statement of Patient’s Capability to Manage Benefits
• SSA-L4201, Letter to Employer Requesting Wage Information
• SSA-789, Request for Reconsideration for Disability Cessation
• SSA-3885, Government Pension Questionnaire
• SSA-150, Modified Benefits Formula Questionnaire

The agency said the recent efforts are part of its push to "modernize and streamline operations." The SSA said it is considering removing signature requirements on other forms.