Requirements for a Social Security Number

A Social Security number is a nine-digit number that is unique to each person. It is given to citizens of the United States and permanent residents of the U.S. by the Social Security Administration. It is necessary to have this number to file taxes, apply for work, to get any type of assistance from the government, to get a mortgage or to get credit. Children must have a Social Security number by the age of one. There is no fee for a Social Security number. The number is issued on a Social Security card.

Birth Certificate

To verify age, the Social Security Administration must see a birth certificate. Other documents that are acceptable substitutions to a birth certificate are: a record from the U.S. hospital in which the individual was born, a religious document that records age or date of birth before the individual turned five, a passport, or a final adoption decree.

Proof of Identity

Adults need to provide the Social Security Administration with a U.S. driver's license, an identity card issued by a U.S. state or a U.S. passport. For young children who don't have those documents, the Social Security Administration accepts medical records, an adoption decree, or a school identity card or record. A birth certificate is not accepted as proof of identity, only for proof of age. The proof of identity must have the legal name on it.

Applying for a Child

If you are applying for a card on behalf of a child, you must provide your own U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport. Other acceptable documents include a Consular Report of Birth, Certificate of Citizenship or a Certificate of Naturalization. This establishes that you have the right to sign the Social Security application on behalf of the person for whom the card is designated. Immigrants must show a document that has been issued to them by the Department of Homeland Security.

Completion of the Application for a Social Security Card

You must complete the form provided by the Social Security Administration and provide all of the required documentation to the office. Find the local office in the phone book, on its website or by calling Social Security at [phone].

Name Change or Lost Card

If you change your name because of marriage or for any other reason, you will have to complete another form. It is important that the name on your Social Security card is the same legal name you use for all of your transactions so as not to cause problems. If you have lost your card and need a replacement, you need to complete the form and provide proof of identity.

Protect Your Number

Protect your number and avoid giving it out without a valid reason. It is part of your identity and you don't want it to be stolen or misused. People can attempt to establish a false identity using a lost or stolen number.

References

• Social Security Administration

Who Can HelpSponsored

• Ask a Lawyer Online Now