Article Structure
The SSA SS-5 form plays a crucial role in the process of obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN), which is essential for various aspects of life in the United States, including employment, tax reporting, and accessing government services. This form is primarily used by individuals who are applying for their first SSN, requesting a replacement card, or updating their personal information. Completing the SSA SS-5 requires specific personal details, such as the applicant's name, date of birth, and citizenship status. It is important to provide accurate information, as discrepancies can lead to delays or complications in processing the application. The form is available online, but it can also be submitted in person at a local Social Security office. Understanding the requirements and the correct way to fill out the SSA SS-5 can simplify the application process and ensure that individuals receive their Social Security Number without unnecessary obstacles.
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Social Security Administration |
OMB No. |
Application for a Social Security Card
Applying for a Social Security Card is free!
USE THIS APPLICATION TO:
●Apply for an original Social Security card
●Apply for a replacement Social Security card
●Change or correct information on your Social Security number record
IMPORTANT: You MUST provide a properly completed application and the required evidence before we can process your application. We can only accept original documents or documents certified by the custodian of the original record. Notarized copies or photocopies which have not been certified by the custodian of the record are not acceptable. We will return any documents submitted with your application. For assistance call us at
Original Social Security Card
To apply for an original card, you must provide at least two documents to prove age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or current lawful,
NOTE: If you are age 12 or older and have never received a Social Security number, you must apply in person.
Replacement Social Security Card
To apply for a replacement card, you must provide one document to prove your identity. If you were born outside the U.S., you must also provide documents to prove your U.S. citizenship or current, lawful,
Changing Information on Your Social Security Record
To change the information on your Social Security number record (i.e., a name or citizenship change, or corrected date of birth) you must provide documents to prove your identity, support the requested change, and establish the reason for the change. For example, you may provide a birth certificate to show your correct date of birth. A document supporting a name change must be recent and identify you by both your old and new names. If the name change event occurred over two years ago or if the name change document does not have enough information to prove your identity, you must also provide documents to prove your identity in your prior name and/or in some cases your new legal name. If you were born outside the U.S. you must provide a document to prove your U.S. citizenship or current lawful,
LIMITS ON REPLACEMENT SOCIAL SECURITY CARDS
Public Law
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about this form or about the evidence documents you must provide, please visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov for additional information as well as locations of our offices and Social Security Card Centers. You may also call Social Security at
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EVIDENCE DOCUMENTS
The following lists are examples of the types of documents you must provide with your application and are not all inclusive. Call us at
IMPORTANT: If you are completing this application on behalf of someone else, you must provide evidence that shows your authority to sign the application as well as documents to prove your identity and the identity of the person for whom you are filing the application. We can only accept original documents or documents certified by the custodian of the original record. Notarized copies or photocopies which have not been certified by the custodian of the record are not acceptable.
Evidence of Age
In general, you must provide your birth certificate. In some situations, we may accept another document that shows your age. Some of the other documents we may accept are:
●U.S. hospital record of your birth (created at the time of birth)
●Religious record established before age five showing your age or date of birth
●Passport
●Final Adoption Decree (the adoption decree must show that the birth information was taken from the original birth certificate)
Evidence of Identity
You must provide current, unexpired evidence of identity in your legal name. Your legal name will be shown on the Social Security card. Generally, we prefer to see documents issued in the U.S. Documents you submit to establish identity must show your legal name AND provide biographical information (your date of birth, age, or parents' names) and/or physical information (photograph, or physical description - height, eye and hair color, etc.). If you send a photo identity document but do not appear in person, the document must show your biographical information (e.g., your date of birth, age, or parents' names). Generally, documents without an expiration date should have been issued within the past two years for adults and within the past four years for children.
As proof of your identity, you must provide a:
●U.S. driver's license; or
●U.S.
●U.S. passport
If you do not have one of the documents above or cannot get a replacement within 10 work days, we may accept other documents that show your legal name and biographical information, such as a U.S. military identity card, Certificate of Naturalization, employee identity card, certified copy of medical record (clinic, doctor or hospital), health insurance card, Medicaid card, or school identity card/record. For young children, we may accept medical records (clinic, doctor, or hospital) maintained by the medical provider. We may also accept a final adoption decree, or a school identity card, or other school record maintained by the school.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, we must see your current U.S. immigration document(s) and your foreign passport with biographical information or photograph.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT A BIRTH CERTIFICATE, HOSPITAL SOUVENIR BIRTH CERTIFICATE, SOCIAL SECURITY CARD STUB OR A SOCIAL SECURITY RECORD as evidence of identity.
Evidence of U.S. Citizenship
In general, you must provide your U.S. birth certificate or U.S. Passport. Other documents you may provide are a Consular Report of Birth, Certificate of Citizenship, or Certificate of Naturalization.
Evidence of Immigration Status
You must provide a current unexpired document issued to you by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) showing your immigration status, such as Form
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HOW TO COMPLETE THIS APPLICATION
Complete and sign this application LEGIBLY using ONLY black or blue ink on the attached or downloaded form using only 8 ½” x 11” (or A4 8.25” x 11.7”) paper.
GENERAL: Items on the form are
4.Show the month, day, and full (4 digit) year of birth; for example, “1998” for year of birth.
5.If you check “Legal Alien Not Allowed to Work” or “Other,” you must provide a document from a U.S. Federal, State, or local government agency that explains why you need a Social Security number and that you meet all the requirements for the government benefit. NOTE: Most agencies do not require that you have a Social Security number. Contact us to see if your reason qualifies for a
Social Security number.
6., 7. Providing race and ethnicity information is voluntary and does not affect decisions on your application. We request this information for research and statistical purposes, to ensure all our customers receive fair and equal treatment.
9.B., 10.B. If you are applying for an original Social Security card for a child under age 18, you MUST show the parents' Social Security numbers unless the parent was never assigned a Social Security number. If the number is not known and you cannot obtain it, check the “unknown” box.
13.If the date of birth you show in item 4 is different from the date of birth currently shown on your Social Security record, show the date of birth currently shown on your record in item 13 and provide evidence to support the date of birth shown in item 4.
16.Show an address where you can receive your card 7 to 14 days from now.
17.WHO CAN SIGN THE APPLICATION? If you are age 18 or older and are physically and mentally capable of reading and completing the application, you must sign in item 17. If you are under age 18, you may either sign yourself, or a parent or legal guardian may sign for you. If you are over age 18 and cannot sign on your own behalf, a legal guardian, parent, or close relative may generally sign for you. If you cannot sign your name, you should sign with an "X” mark and have two people sign as witnesses in the space beside the mark. Please do not alter your signature by including additional information on the signature line as this may invalidate your application. Call us if you have questions about who may sign your application.
HOW TO SUBMIT THIS APPLICATION
In most cases, you can take or mail this signed application with your documents to any Social Security office. Any documents you mail to us will be returned to you. Go to https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp to find the Social Security office or Social Security Card Center that serves your area.
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PROTECT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER AND CARD
Protect your SSN card and number from loss and identity theft. DO NOT carry your SSN card with you. Keep it in a secure location and only take it with you when you must show the card; e.g., to obtain a new job, open a new bank account, or to obtain benefits from certain U.S. agencies. Use caution in giving out your Social Security number to others, particularly during phone, mail, email and Internet requests you did not initiate.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
Collection and Use of Personal Information
Sections 202, 205(c), and 702 of the Social Security Act (Act), as amended, allow us to collect this information, which we will use to assign a Social Security number, issue a Social Security card, and make a timely determination concerning eligibility for Social Security benefits. Providing the information is voluntary, but not providing all or part of the information may prevent us from assisting you. As law permits, we may use and share the information you submit, including with other Federal agencies, contractors, and others, as outlined in the routine uses within System of Records Notices (SORN)
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement - This information collection meets the requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507, as amended by section 2 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. You do not need to answer these questions unless we display a valid Office of Management and Budget control number. We estimate that it will take between 5 and 60 minutes to read the instructions, gather the facts, and answer the questions. SEND OR BRING THE COMPLETED
FORM TO YOUR LOCAL SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE. You can find your local Social Security office through SSA’s website at www.socialsecurity.gov. Offices are also listed under U. S. Government agencies in your telephone directory or you may call Social Security at
Document Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The SSA SS-5 form is used to apply for a Social Security card, which is necessary for tracking earnings and benefits. |
| Eligibility | Any individual, including U.S. citizens and non-citizens, can apply for a Social Security card using this form. |
| Required Information | The form requires personal details such as name, date of birth, and place of birth, as well as proof of identity. |
| Filing Method | The completed SSA SS-5 form can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a local Social Security office. |
| Processing Time | Typically, it takes about 10 to 14 business days to receive a Social Security card after the form is processed. |
| State-Specific Forms | Some states may have additional requirements or forms. Refer to state-specific regulations under Title 42 of the U.S. Code for guidance. |
Steps to Filling Out SSA SS-5
Completing the SSA SS-5 form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. Once the form is filled out correctly, it will need to be submitted to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for processing. Below are the steps to ensure accurate completion of the form.
- Obtain the SSA SS-5 form. This can be done online through the SSA website or by visiting a local SSA office.
- Begin by filling out your personal information in Section 1. Include your name, social security number (if applicable), and date of birth.
- In Section 2, provide your place of birth. This includes the city and state or country where you were born.
- Section 3 requires information about your parents. List their names, social security numbers (if known), and dates of birth.
- Complete Section 4 with your current address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
- In Section 5, indicate your gender and specify if you are a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen.
- Section 6 asks about your previous Social Security number, if you have ever had one. Provide details if applicable.
- Review all the information you have entered for accuracy. Check for any spelling errors or missing details.
- Sign and date the form in Section 7. Ensure that your signature matches the name provided at the top of the form.
- Submit the completed form. You can mail it to the appropriate SSA office or deliver it in person.
More About SSA SS-5
What is the SSA SS-5 form?
The SSA SS-5 form is an application used to request a Social Security card. It is essential for individuals who need to obtain a new card, replace a lost or stolen card, or change their name on their existing card. This form is a crucial step in establishing your identity and eligibility for various benefits and services in the United States.
Who needs to fill out the SSA SS-5 form?
Anyone who requires a Social Security card should fill out the SSA SS-5 form. This includes U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, and eligible non-citizens. Whether you are applying for the first time, replacing a lost card, or updating your name due to marriage or divorce, this form is necessary.
Where can I obtain the SSA SS-5 form?
You can easily obtain the SSA SS-5 form online through the Social Security Administration's official website. Alternatively, you can visit your local Social Security office to request a hard copy. Many libraries and community centers also provide access to this form.
What information do I need to provide on the SSA SS-5 form?
The SSA SS-5 form requires personal information such as your name, date of birth, and place of birth. You will also need to provide details about your parents, including their names and Social Security numbers if available. If you are applying for a replacement card, you may need to provide information about your previous card.
Can I submit the SSA SS-5 form online?
Currently, the SSA SS-5 form cannot be submitted online. You must print the completed form and submit it either by mail or in person at your local Social Security office. Make sure to check the SSA website for any updates regarding online submissions in the future.
What identification do I need to provide with the SSA SS-5 form?
When submitting the SSA SS-5 form, you must provide proof of identity. This can include a U.S. driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. If you do not have any of these, other documents, such as a birth certificate or employee ID card, may be accepted. The SSA requires original documents, so make sure to bring the actual documents rather than copies.
How long does it take to receive my new Social Security card?
After your SSA SS-5 form is processed, you can expect to receive your new Social Security card within 10 to 14 business days. If you have not received it within this timeframe, it’s advisable to contact the Social Security Administration to check on the status of your application.
Is there a fee for applying for a Social Security card using the SSA SS-5 form?
No, there is no fee for applying for a Social Security card using the SSA SS-5 form. The process is free, which is beneficial for individuals who may need to apply or replace their cards multiple times throughout their lives.
What should I do if my application is denied?
If your application for a Social Security card is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reason for the denial. It’s important to review this information carefully. You can appeal the decision if you believe it was made in error. The notice will provide instructions on how to proceed with the appeal process.
Common mistakes
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Failing to provide accurate personal information. It's crucial to ensure that your name, date of birth, and place of birth are correct.
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Not including the required identification documents. The SSA requires specific documents to verify your identity, such as a birth certificate or passport.
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Neglecting to sign and date the form. Without your signature, the application cannot be processed.
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Using outdated versions of the form. Always ensure you are using the most current version of the SSA SS-5 form.
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Providing incomplete information. Leaving any sections blank can lead to delays or rejection of your application.
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Failing to specify the reason for applying. Clearly stating why you need a Social Security card helps in processing your request.
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Overlooking the requirement for children’s applications. If applying for a minor, additional documentation may be necessary.
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Not checking for spelling errors. Simple typos can cause significant issues in processing your application.
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Submitting the form without making copies. Always keep a copy of your completed form and any documents submitted for your records.
Documents used along the form
The SSA SS-5 form is essential for individuals applying for a Social Security Number (SSN). However, there are several other forms and documents that often accompany the SS-5 to support the application process. These documents can help verify identity, citizenship, and eligibility for an SSN. Below is a list of common forms and documents used alongside the SSA SS-5 form.
- Proof of Identity: This can include a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. It verifies the applicant's identity and age.
- Proof of Citizenship: Documents such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate establish citizenship status.
- Immigration Documents: For non-citizens, providing a valid immigration document, like a visa or green card, is necessary to show lawful presence in the U.S.
- Form I-94: This form is used by non-citizens to show their arrival and departure from the U.S. It is crucial for establishing legal status.
- Adoption Papers: For adopted children, legal adoption documents may be required to prove the relationship and identity.
- Court Documents: In cases of name changes or other legal matters, court orders can provide necessary verification of identity.
- Tax Documents: Previous tax returns or W-2 forms may be used to demonstrate income and residency, especially for adults applying for an SSN.
- School Records: For minors, school records can help verify age and identity, especially when other documents are not available.
Gathering the appropriate documents can streamline the application process for an SSN. By ensuring that all necessary forms and supporting materials are ready, applicants can avoid delays and complications. Understanding these requirements is crucial for a successful application experience.
Similar forms
The SSA SS-5 form is similar to the application for a driver's license. Both documents require personal information such as name, date of birth, and address. When applying for a driver's license, individuals must provide proof of identity and residency. Similarly, the SS-5 form demands evidence of citizenship or legal residency, ensuring that the applicant is eligible for a Social Security number. Both forms serve as essential identification tools in the United States.
An application for a passport shares similarities with the SSA SS-5 form. Both require applicants to submit personal details, including full name, date of birth, and place of birth. A passport application also necessitates proof of citizenship, just like the SS-5. Additionally, both documents are vital for travel and identification purposes, providing access to various services and benefits.
The voter registration form is another document akin to the SSA SS-5. Each requires basic personal information, including name and address. Voter registration also demands proof of identity and residency, paralleling the requirements of the SS-5 form. Both documents play crucial roles in civic participation, ensuring that individuals can access their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
The birth certificate application resembles the SSA SS-5 form in that both require detailed personal information. When applying for a birth certificate, individuals must provide proof of identity and may need to show parental information. The SS-5 form similarly requires proof of identity and citizenship, making both documents essential for establishing legal identity in the United States.
The marriage certificate application is comparable to the SSA SS-5 form as both require personal details from the applicants. When applying for a marriage certificate, individuals must provide identification and proof of eligibility to marry. The SS-5 form also requires identification and proof of citizenship or residency. Both documents are important for establishing legal status in various life events.
An employment application shares common ground with the SSA SS-5 form. Both documents require personal information, including name, address, and Social Security number. Employers often request verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States, similar to how the SS-5 form verifies citizenship or residency. Both forms are essential for accessing employment opportunities.
The health insurance application form is another document similar to the SSA SS-5. Both require personal information such as name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Health insurance applications also demand proof of identity and sometimes residency, paralleling the requirements of the SS-5. Both forms are vital for accessing necessary services and benefits.
The student enrollment form is akin to the SSA SS-5 form, as both require personal information from individuals. When enrolling in school, students must provide proof of identity and residency, similar to the requirements of the SS-5. Both documents are essential for accessing educational opportunities and establishing eligibility for various programs.
The loan application form shares similarities with the SSA SS-5 form. Both require personal details, including name, address, and Social Security number. Loan applications also often require proof of identity and income, paralleling the SS-5's need for citizenship verification. Both documents are crucial for accessing financial resources and services.
The insurance claim form is comparable to the SSA SS-5 form in that both require personal information and identification. When filing a claim, individuals must provide details about the incident and proof of identity. The SS-5 form also requires identification and proof of citizenship or residency. Both documents are important for accessing benefits and services in various contexts.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the SSA SS-5 form, it's important to be careful and precise. Here are five tips to help you navigate the process:
- Do double-check all personal information for accuracy.
- Do provide your Social Security number if you have one.
- Do use black or blue ink when filling out the form.
- Don't leave any required fields blank; fill in all necessary information.
- Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
Misconceptions
The SSA SS-5 form is essential for obtaining a Social Security number. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form. Here are seven common misunderstandings:
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Only U.S. citizens can apply for a Social Security number.
This is not true. Both U.S. citizens and non-citizens can apply for a Social Security number if they meet certain eligibility requirements.
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You must be an adult to apply for a Social Security number.
In fact, children can also receive a Social Security number. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their children.
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Once you have a Social Security number, you never need to update it.
This is misleading. You may need to update your information if you change your name or if there are errors in your records.
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The SSA SS-5 form is only for first-time applicants.
Not true. This form can also be used for individuals who need to replace a lost or stolen Social Security card.
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You can only submit the SSA SS-5 form in person.
While you can submit it in person, you also have the option to mail the completed form to the Social Security Administration.
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There is a fee to apply for a Social Security number.
This is incorrect. There is no fee for applying for or obtaining a Social Security number.
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Filling out the SSA SS-5 form is complicated.
Many find the form straightforward. Clear instructions are provided to help you complete it accurately.
Key takeaways
When filling out the SSA SS-5 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:
- Accuracy is crucial. Ensure that all information is correct and matches your legal documents to avoid delays.
- Provide necessary documentation. Include proof of identity, age, and citizenship or legal residency when submitting the form.
- Submit it in the right way. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. Choose the method that works best for you.
- Follow up. After submission, check the status of your application to ensure everything is processed smoothly.