How to Obtain Your Child's SSN

There are easy steps to getting your child a social security number.

There are so many things to do when you have a new baby. The last thing on your mind may be to get the child a social security number. But your children do need social security numbers for many reasons, including so that you can claim them on taxes, open bank accounts for them, get health insurance and apply for certain services.

Things You'll Need

• Social security numbers of parent(s)
• Proof of child's citizenship, age and identity
• Proof of parent's identity

Instructions

Applying For a Card At The Hospital

1. At the hospital or birthing center, tell the staff that you would like a social security number for your newborn.

2. Fill out the appropriate forms. Provide the social security numbers of the parent(s) on the form.

3. Wait for your child's social security card to arrive in the mail, usually within five weeks.

Applying At The Social Security Office

1. Complete the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) at your local social security office.

2. Provide an original document proving the child's citizenship. Forms of this proof include a United States passport, a United States birth certification, a United States consular report of birth, a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship.

3. Show proof of age with the child's birth certificate.

4. Give proof of identity by providing one current proof document. Acceptable documents include a passport, hospital record, adoption decree, religious record, daycare or school record.

5. Prove your identity by providing your driver's license or state-issued identification card or passport. Other acceptable forms of identification include employee identification card, marriage license, health insurance card or life insurance policy.

6. Wait for your child's social security card to arrive in the mail.

Tips & Warnings

• All proof documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies are not acceptable.

• Protect your child's social security card and number from theft.

References

• Social Security: Social Security Numbers for Children