How to Obtain an SSN Card
- 1). Complete application Form SS-5, Social Security Administration Application for a Social Security Card. You can pick up the form at your local Social Security office or print it from their website. (See Resources.)
- 2). Provide proof of age. A birth certificate is ideal but Social Security may also accept a hospital record of your birth, certain church records, a passport or a final adoption decree.
- 3). Provide proof of identity. This document must be unexpired, show your legal name and include identifying information such as a photograph, physical description and birth date. Ideal forms of identification include a U.S. driver's license, state ID card or a U.S. passport.
- 4). Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status. If you provided a birth certificate or U.S. passport these will also stand as proof of citizenship. Otherwise, you must also provide documentation such as a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen then you must provide documentation of your immigration status and authorization to work in the United States as issued to you by the Department of Homeland Security. The application form includes a list of acceptable forms of proof.
- 5). Provide only original or certified documents. The Social Security Administration will not accept photocopies or notarized copies. Social Security will return the originals after it processes your application.
- 6). Turn in your completed application and accompanying documentation. Go in person to your local Social Security Administration office or mail the documents to the office. In some circumstances you will be required to appear in person.
- 7). Wait for your card in the mail. Assuming your application was complete, you should receive your new card in several weeks. You can also check the status of your application online at the Social Security Administration website.
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