How to Get a Social Security Card

You need a Social Security card for tax purposes and to receive payments.

If you have never had a Social Security card, and you are a citizen of the United States, you can get one from the Social Security Administration. A Social Security number is used to identify you in numerous ways, including for taxes, college and to receive Social Security payments after you retire. All it takes to get a Social Security card is to fill out the correct forms and present the proper identification.

Instructions

1. Go to the Social Security Administration's website listed in the references and click on the "Print and Fill Out Application" link, located in the center of the homepage.

2. Download the application and instructions. If you do not have access to a computer or printer, you may pick up a form at your local Social Security Administration office.

3. Fill out the application by entering your name, place of birth, address, date of birth, country of citizenship, ethnicity, race and sex. You'll also need to enter your parents' names and their Social Security numbers. Sign the application and make a photocopy of the page for your own records.

4. Take the application to your nearest Social Security Administration office if you are requesting a card for the first time. If you need a replacement card, you may mail the application to the Social Security Administration, unless you live in New York City; Las Vegas, Nev.; Sacramento, Calif.; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix, Ariz.; or Twin Cities, Minneapolis, in which case you must take the application to your nearest SSA office.

5. Present your application with the proper evidence of your identification. Acceptable forms of ID are a driver's license, a state-issued ID or a passport. Birth certificates are not acceptable forms of evidence of your identity.

6. Show evidence that you are a citizen of the United States by showing a birth certificate. If you are a legalized immigrant, you must show supporting evidence issued by the Department of Homeland Security.

7. Take your receipt that shows you have applied for a Social Security card. Often this document can be used in place of a card until the card arrives in the mail.

References

• Social Security Administration: Application for a Social Security Card