How to Find My Social Security Number
Your Social Security number validates that you are eligible to work in the United States and ultimately receive Social Security benefits and participate in other government programs. Every American citizen is issued a number at birth. Your Social Security number is crucial for employment purposes, so losing it can be a problem.
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Instructions
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Look up old pay stubs or tax returns. Your pay stubs and tax returns will contain your Social Security number.
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Contact your local employer if you can't find your pay stub or tax return. They will likely have your Social Security number on file.
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Contact your parents or anyone who has had to claim you as a dependent. If they have claimed you as a dependent on tax records, they may have access to your Social Security number.
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Go to your local Social Security office. Explain to them your problem and be prepared to show government issued identification such as a driver's license, birth certificate or passport.
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Get a replacement Social Security card. In order to get a replacement card, you will have to fill out an SS-5 form (see Resources) and provide proof of citizen in the form of a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. consular report of birth, a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. You will also need to provide proof of identity through a state issued ID card, a driver's license or U.S. passport. This service is free of charge, however you can only be given 10 Social Security cards in your lifetime and three in any one year (change of name does not count toward the limits).
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Tips & Warnings
Knowing your Social Security number is more important than having a Social Security card. Always keep your Social Security card in a safe, secure location.
