Free replacement social security card

Replacing a Social Security card is free and can be done online or in person. Residents of Alaska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, or U.S. territories need to follow a different process. Gather the necessary documents for a replacement for an adult or child, citizen or noncitizen. A Social Security card can be used for ID, employment, or benefits. Learn how to replace or correct a card, or obtain one for the first time for yourself or a baby.

Social Security card replacement online

Importance of SS Card: Key for employment, taxes, and identification.

How to Replace Your Social Security Card

Replacing your Social Security card is free. You can request a replacement online or in person. If you’re in Alaska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, or a U.S. territory, follow these steps:

Document Requirements: Identify the documents needed for replacing a card for any individual, regardless of citizenship or age.

 Essential Documents for Proof of Citizenship, Age, and Identity

When applying for a Social Security number (SSN), it’s crucial to present original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted, and all documents must be current and unexpired. Here’s a quick guide on what you need:

Citizenship:
U.S. birth certificate
U.S. passport

Age:
Birth certificate (if available)
If a birth certificate isn’t available, other acceptable documents include:
Religious record made before age five showing your date of birth
U.S. hospital record of your birth
U.S. passport

Identity:
U.S. driver’s license
State-issued non-driver ID card
U.S. passport
If you don’t have these documents, alternatives include:
Employee ID card
School ID card
Health insurance card (not Medicare)
U.S. military ID card

Note: A single document can serve multiple purposes. For example, a U.S. passport can verify both citizenship and identity, but you’ll still need to provide at least two separate documents overall.

For those age 12 or older applying for an original SSN, an in-person interview is required to prove no prior SSN assignment. Documentation such as school records, employment records, or tax records may be necessary, especially if you’ve lived outside the U.S. for a long time.

Stay organized, ensure your documents are current, and gather everything you need to make the process smooth and efficient.

Complete Form SS-5: Print and fill out the application form.

Visit Your Local SSA Office: Find the address of your nearest Social Security office, and bring your completed Form SS-5 along with your supporting documents.

This streamlined process ensures you get your replacement card efficiently.

This  application Social Security card link https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf

ordering a new Social Security card

There is no charge for correcting your Social Security card or getting one for the first time. Follow these steps:

Required Documents: Learn what documents you need to correct or get a new card for an adult or child, citizen or noncitizen.

Required Documents for Social Security Card

Citizenship:
Acceptable documents: U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.

Age:
Preferred: Birth certificate.
If unavailable: Religious record (page five), U.S. hospital birth record, or U.S. passport.

Original SSN for Age 12+:
An in-person interview is required.
Evidence showing no prior SSN: Long-term residence documents (e.g., passport, school, employment records) or U.S. school/tax records.

Identity:
Acceptable documents: Current U.S. driver’s license, state-issued nondriver ID, or U.S. passport.
If unavailable, other documents: Employee ID, school ID, health insurance card (not Medicare), or U.S. military ID.

Note:
One document can serve multiple purposes (e.g., a U.S. passport for both citizenship and identity).
At least two separate documents are required.

Form SS-5: Print and fill out the application form.

Visit SSA Office: Find your local Social Security office’s address and bring your completed Form SS-5 along with your supporting documents to the office.

how to get a replacement social security card for my child

we’ll guide you through ordering a new social security card for your child, whether you’re a new parent or have recently adopted.

Importance of a Social Security Card
A social security number (SSN) is a unique identifier issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to track earnings and benefits. It’s required for opening bank accounts, applying for government benefits, and enrolling in school.

Gathering Necessary Documents
To obtain a new social security card for your child, gather these documents:
Proof of your child’s age (birth certificate or passport)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status
Proof of your own identity (parent or legal guardian)
Your own social security card or other proof of your SSN

Completing the Application Form
Complete the application form (Form SS-5), which is available on the SSA website or at your local SSA office. Ensure you fill in all necessary information accurately, including your child’s full name, date of birth, and contact information.

Visiting the Local Social Security Office
Visit your local Social Security office with the completed application form and original copies of all required documents. The SSA will verify and return your documents.

Processing and Receiving the Card
After submitting the application and documents, the SSA will process your request. It typically takes about two weeks to receive your child’s social security card by mail, but processing times may vary.

Safeguarding Your Child’s Social Security Card
Once you receive the card, keep it in a secure location such as a lockbox or safe at home. Avoid carrying the card in your wallet or purse unless absolutely necessary. Memorize the SSN or keep a secure record of it. Share the SSN only with trusted entities when required.

Conclusion
Ordering a new social security card for your child may seem complex, but by following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process. Gather all required documents, complete the application accurately, visit your local Social Security office, and await the new card. Protect your child’s SSN once you receive it. Thank you for watching, and we’ll see you next time.

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