Form SSA-3288, Consent for Release of Information
Social Security records are confidential by default. Form SSA-3288 is your written consent letting SSA release specific information about you to someone you name.
This is the genuine SSA PDF, unmodified. Source: SSA official page.
What is SSA-3288?
Form SSA-3288 authorizes the Social Security Administration to disclose your records, benefit information, earnings history, medical evidence in a disability file, to a third party: an attorney, a family member, a landlord verifying income, or an agency. The consent must specify what may be released, to whom, and why, and it expires after the disclosure it covers.
It moves information out of SSA; it does not let anyone act on your behalf, which is what the SSA-1696 appointment of representative does.
Who files SSA-3288?
- Beneficiaries letting an attorney or advocate see their file
- People authorizing income verification to a housing authority or lender
- Family members assisting with a relative’s Social Security matters, with the relative’s signature
How to fill out SSA-3288
- Enter your name, SSN, and date of birth.
- Name the person or organization to receive the information.
- Describe exactly which records to release and the reason.
- Download, sign and date, and submit it to your local Social Security office; consent is only valid signed and dated within the last 90 days.
Quick fill SSA-3288 on this page
Prefer to see the form itself while you type? Open SSA-3288 in the editor to fill it on the actual pages, add a signature, and download.
Frequently asked questions
Can SSA release everything in my file?
Only what you specify. A vague "all records" request is likely to be returned; the form asks you to name the information precisely.
Does this let someone call SSA for me?
No. It authorizes a one-way release of records. Ongoing representation in a claim needs the separate appointment of representative form.