## Keep your eCBSV access active: renewing your Permitted Entity Certification (PEC)

To keep eCBSV running smoothly, your Permitted Entity Certification (PEC) with the SSA needs to stay up to date.

PECs expire every 2 years - and once they do, eCBSV requests will start failing right away.

> ⚠️  
> If you’re seeing R996: **The permitted entity certification is invalid**, your PEC has likely expired.

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## What is a PEC?

It’s an official attestation to the SSA that confirms your organization is allowed to use eCBSV.

- **Valid for**: 2 years from the date of issue
- **If it expires**: You won’t be able to send requests
- **To stay active**: Renew before it lapses to avoid disruptions

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## How to check your PEC status

PEC expiration dates are **not** automatically tracked by the SSA. You must monitor them internally.

### Here’s how

- Review your original SSA certification email
- Open your PEC PDF and look for the **"Date of Signature"** field
- Can’t find it? Contact: [eCBSVHelpDesk@ssa.gov](mailto:eCBSVHelpDesk@ssa.gov)

> 💡  
> Pro tip: Add a recurring reminder to your compliance calendar _(Recommended: 60 days before expiration)_

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## Renew before it expires

The SSA requires a new **Permitted Entity Certification (PEC)** to be signed and submitted **every two years**. You’ll do this through the Customer Connection Portal, as outlined in the User Agreement.

To keep things on track:

- Double-check that all fields are complete and accurate
- Set internal reminders (like 60 days out) so your PEC doesn’t lapse

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## Renewal checklist

- [ ]  Locate your existing PEC
- [ ]  Set 60-day renewal reminder
- [ ]  Visit SSA Institution Registration page
- [ ]  Complete re-certification form
- [ ]  Submit new PEC and required documents
- [ ]  Confirm EIN is still valid
- [ ]  Verify renewal with SSA Help Desk

Updated 3 months ago

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