As the April 15 tax filing deadline nears, some federal retirees are reporting delays in receiving their Form 1099-R statements from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). These forms report annuity income and any federal tax withheld for the prior year (2025 in this case) and are essential for accurate tax preparation.
In previous years, OPM mailed paper copies of the 1099-R to annuitants by late January, with most recipients getting them by mid-February, depending on location. However, a policy update implemented last year shifted the default to digital delivery for those with an email address linked to their Retirement Services Online (RSO) account. Under this change:
- Annuitants with an email on file receive an email notification and access to a digital version unless they specifically request a paper copy.
- Those without an email or who prefer mail are supposed to receive paper forms automatically, typically mailed by the end of January.
Recent reports indicate that many federal retirees, particularly those expecting mailed copies, are still waiting weeks beyond the usual timeline. Sources note that paper forms are now several weeks behind schedule for some. OPM has attributed potential contributing factors to high processing volumes and, in some cases, weather-related mail disruptions in areas like the Washington, D.C., and Northeast regions. The agency advises allowing about 10 days for delivery after mailing.
Accessing forms digitally remains an option for faster resolution. OPM provides a no-login-required tool at servicesonline.opm.gov/1099-request, where annuitants can enter their zip code and claim number (found on prior correspondence like annuity statements or last year’s 1099-R) to receive an email link for downloading and printing the form. For those with an RSO account, forms are available directly in the portal, and delivery preferences can be updated there.
Challenges have also arisen for some in contacting OPM for assistance. The Retirement Services hotline has seen reports of long wait times, and lawmakers have raised concerns about constituent difficulties reaching representatives or navigating the online system.
On March 2, 2026, Democratic members of Congress, including Reps. James Walkinshaw and Frank Pallone, sent a letter to OPM Director Scott Kupor requesting details on mailing status, call wait times, customer satisfaction metrics, and planned improvements to address these issues.
OPM encourages using online tools first for the quickest access and notes that digital versions have been available since late January. For the latest guidance, visit opm.gov/retirement-center/tax-information-for-annuitants/ or the Services Online portal.
