How to Search for a SSN
It is illegal for a private citizen to obtain a social security number other than his or her own. Social security numbers are routinely collected by employers, universities and banking institutions for verification purposes. But private citizens should consider the number confidential and should scrutinize individuals, websites and organizations that ask for the number. Laws governing social security cards are administered by both individual states and the federal government. If you have lost your social security card or don't remember your number, follow these steps.
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Instructions
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Fill out Form SS-5. The Social Security Administration provides instructions and a printable form to apply for your replacement social security card. Your social security number will be listed on this card. To obtain a social security card, you must fill out Form SS-5, called "Application for a social security card."
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Gather required documents. Along with Form SS-5, you must present "original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency" that prove you are a U.S. citizen or show your immigration status. An example of these documents are a U.S. passport or a U.S. birth certificate for citizens. Immigrants will need to present one of the following: Form I-551 and a valid passport, Form 1-94 and a valid passport, or a work permit card issued by the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, you must show your age, which can be confirmed by a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport, and confirm your identity through a valid U.S. driver's license or state-issued identification card such as a U.S. military identification card.
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Submit your materials. Mail your application and documents to a Social Security office near you. You also can visit your local office and present the required documents there. The Social Security Administration website warns that you may have three replacement cards in a year and only 10 throughout your lifetime.
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Check your W-2. If you need to know your social security number quickly, then check your past tax forms.Your employer is required to send the Social Security Administration an annual report of your earnings, called a Wage and Tax Statement. You will find your social security number listed in the first form field on that statement, labeled with an "a." and the words: "employee's social security number."
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