How to Get Your Security Card

Use your Social Security card throughout life.

A Social Security card is the most important piece of identifying information a person can possess. The official American Social Security card is issued at birth and provides a newborn with a unique identifying number. The Social Security card is used throughout life for employment purposes, obtaining passports, filing taxes and many other important matters. Getting a Social Security card -- if it is lost, for example -- is a straightforward proposition if you follow the guidelines determined by the Social Security Administration.

Things You'll Need

• Social Security card application
• Driver's license
• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Marriage license

Instructions

1. Visit the official Social Security Administration website. Click on the "Get or Replace a Social Security Card" tab in the left hand menu on the home page. Select the "Learn What Documents You Need" tab. Fill out prefabricated information boxes and click "Submit" to identify exactly what forms you need to suit your specific purpose.

2. Download and complete the Social Security Card Application Form known as Form SS-5. Copy your birth certificate and one other official form of identifying information -- current driver's license, for example -- to include with your application. Copy immigration certificates and/or proof-of-work status documents if you are not a naturally born US citizen. Submit all documentation to the Social Security Administration. No fee is required.

3. Call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 to speak with a representative for answers to complex questions. Limit your requests for cards to three per every 12 months and/or 10 over your entire lifetime.

References

• Social Security Administration: Getting a Card
• Social Security Administration: Getting or Replacing a Card
• Social Security Administration: Form SS-%