How to Become a New Member of the Social Security System
A Social Security number is essential to American citizens. Every citizen must apply for a number either as a child or an adult. To become a new member of the Social Security system, you need to apply for a Social Security number.
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Things You'll Need
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Original birth certificate or a certified copy
- United States driver's license
Instructions
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Citizens of the United States are eligible to apply for a Social Security number at any time. You must complete a Form SS-5, which you can print as a PDF document from the Social Security Administration's website.
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In addition to Form SS-5, you also need documentation proving your United States citizenship, identity and age if you are an adult. Documents proving your U.S. citizenship include a United States birth certificate, U.S. Passport or Certificate of Naturalization. The birth certificate is required to prove your age. Documents proving your identity include a U.S. driver's license, a state-issued non-driver identification card or a U.S. Passport. You must present at least two forms of official documentation, which must be either the original or a certified copy from the issuing agency.
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To apply for a Social Security card for a child under 12 years of age, you must provide documentation of the child's U.S. citizenship, age and identity along with the Form SS-5. The documents for proving citizenship and age are the same as for an adult. Some acceptable documents for proving identity for a child include a U.S. Passport, an adoption decree, a school identification card or daycare record. Sometimes the child's presence is required to verify identity. In addition, the parent completing the form must also provide proof of identity.
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Take or mail the Form SS-5 and accompanying documents to your local Social Security office. If you are more than 12 years old, you must appear in a Social Security office for an interview. If you send original documents, they will be returned to you immediately.
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Wait for the Social Security Administration to process your application and assign you a card.
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Tips & Warnings
Non-citizens authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to work in the United States may apply for a Social Security card; however, this is not required.
Keep your Social Security card in a secure place due to the danger of identity theft.
If you lose your card, you may apply for a replacement card.
