To obtain a Social Security card for the first time or as a backup, you must fill out Social Security Form SS-5 and submit at least two supporting documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship status. If you feel overwhelmed by the process, don’t worry; We will guide you through the process. steps to complete.

Why Do I Need Form SS-5?

Here are some special situations where you may need to fill out this form.

• Maybe you’ve never had a Social Security card before because your parents never filed on your behalf and you need one now to get a job.
• You used to have a Social Security card but you lost it, it was stolen, or it was too damaged to be used.
• You changed your name because you got married, divorced, or for another reason and you need a new card with your new name.
• Your citizenship status has changed; for example, you have ceased to be a legal resident (green card status) To become a US citizen.
• You have a card but it contains a spelling error, such as your name being misspelled or the wrong date of birth, and you want to get a new card with correct information.
• You’ve just given birth or adopted a child and want to get a card for them. claim your child Open a bank account in your child’s name based on your tax return and perform any other duties that require your child to have a bank account. Social Security number.
• You care for an adult dependent and need a Social Security card for them so you can receive government benefits and manage finances.

Below are some details on how to use Form SS-5 for each of these situations.

How to Apply for a Social Security Card?

If you are applying for a Social Security card for the first time or if you are making a change to your card, you will need to apply the old way. You must mail Form SS-5 and your supporting documents to the nearest Social Security office or take them there in person. You can obtain a copy of Form SS-5 online and even fill it out on your computer, but you cannot submit the form online. (If you find a website that says it can do this for you, it’s a scam.)

But if you just need a replacement card, you can do so online after creating a “My Social Security” account on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. Such an account allows, among other things, “to receive personalized estimates of future benefits based on your actual earnings, view your most recent Account Statement, and review your earnings history.” SSA website.

When applying for a Social Security card for any reason, you must always submit supporting documentation to prove the applicant’s age, identity, and citizenship status. Note: SSA does not accept photocopies. It will only accept originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Even if you take the photocopy and the original to the notary to have the photocopy notarized, it will not be enough. The SSA is strict about its requirements.

Getting Your First Card as an Adult

If you are 12 or older and have never had a Social Security card, you must take an extra step beyond filling out Form SS-5 and submitting supporting documentation.

You will need to appear in person at your local Social Security office for an interview. You will also need to prove that you were never issued a Social Security number. Documents that the government may accept as evidence include records showing that you have lived outside the United States for an extended period of time or your school records if you have not been out of the country for an extended period of time.

Replacement of Damaged, Lost or Stolen Cards

You will also need a new Social Security card if your card is damaged, lost, or stolen. In these cases, the SSA limits you to three replacement cards per calendar year and 10 per lifetime.

Getting a replacement card is very easy: Just fill out Form SS-5 and collect the necessary supporting documents. As described above, you can apply for a replacement card by mail, in person, or online through the “My Social Security” account.

Changes Due to Name Change

are you in you changed your name Is it because you got married, divorced or for another reason? If so, you’ll need a new Social Security card. In addition to the basic requirements of Form SS-5, you will need the original or a certified copy of your marriage license (not just a photocopy or notarized copy).

Changing your name on your Social Security card is one of the first steps in completing the name change process. Your updated Social Security card will help you change your name on your driver’s license, employer, and bank.

New Card for Change of Immigration Status

You may also need a new card if your immigration status has changed. The SSA issues three types of Social Security cards, and two of them limit your ability to get a job. If you’ve changed your status, you may need a new card before you start working or changing jobs. You will need to submit additional supporting documents, such as your US citizenship certificate.

Getting a card for an addict

Another common reason to apply Social Security The reason for the card is that you have just given birth or adopted a child. GSA recommends that you get your child a Social Security number as soon as possible; In fact, you can also apply to the hospital when you apply for a birth certificate.

If you are filling out the application on behalf of someone else, including a child under 18, you will need to prove your own identity as well as the applicant’s identity.

You will also need to prove that you are related to or responsible for the person, which may require additional documentation. Otherwise, the application process will be as if you were applying for your own card.

In conclusion

When you request a new or replacement Social Security card from the government, you must request Social Security Form SS-5. Filling out this one-page form is quite simple. Be sure to double-check your work and follow the requirements for submitting supporting documents carefully so that a careless mistake does not delay your application. Make photocopies of everything you submit for your records and expect to wait up to 10 business days to receive your new card.