The following article was written by Jenny Holcomb, Benefits Planner and Certified Work Incentive Practitioner.
If you receive SSDI or SSI, there is one Social Security document you should request every year—but many people don’t know it exists. As we head into 2026, that document is more important than ever: the Social Security Benefits Planning Query (BPQY).
Why SSDI and SSI Recipients Should Request a BPQY Before 2026
Since we recently ended the longest government shutdown, and because another shutdown could occur in 2026, it is especially important to request a BPQY now—while Social Security offices are open and fully staffed.
What Is a Social Security Benefits Planning Query (BPQY)?
For people who are not receiving disability benefits, Social Security sends an annual statement that shows how much they have paid into the system through work. This allows people to review their earnings record and correct any mistakes well before retirement.
People who receive disability benefits through SSDI or SSI do not receive this kind of statement automatically. Instead, their work and earnings record related to disability benefits is contained in the BPQY.
Social Security uses the information in the BPQY to decide whether you are eligible for SSDI and how much you receive. It is also an important tool for spotting potential overpayment issues.
For example, if Social Security has incorrect earnings on file, you could be at risk for an overpayment or lose benefits you should still qualify for. Catching those errors early can prevent serious problems later.
Why Reviewing Your BPQY Each Year Protects Your Disability Benefits
Just as Social Security encourages everyone with a Social Security number to review their earnings record annually, people receiving disability benefits should review their disability-related earnings record each year as well.
It is important to know that the disability earnings record and the general Social Security earnings record are not the same document.
How to Request a BPQY From Social Security
Unfortunately, Social Security does not automatically issue a BPQY each year. It is also not available electronically through your online Social Security account.
To request a BPQY, you must contact Social Security by phone or in person. You can reach Social Security through the national customer service center at 1 (800) 772-1213, or by calling or visiting your local Social Security office. If you choose to go to your local office, it is recommended that you make an appointment ahead of time.
When requesting a BPQY (Benefits Planning Query), be sure to ask specifically for a BPQY and not a standard Benefits Authorization letter. The person answering the phone may not be a disability expert. When they hear “disability benefits,” they may default to sending the annual letter that lists your current monthly benefit amount.
The BPQY is a very different document. It includes information about trial work history, medical review timelines, and disability-related earnings limits.
If you work or are considering going to work, you can request this form at no cost. It is your right to have this information—but you do need to ask for it.
If you have questions or would like help requesting or reviewing a BPQY, Jenny Holcomb can be contacted by email at jenny.holcomb@pennyforward.com or by phone at (888) 332-5558.
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