How to Obtain an SS Card
- 1). Locate the local social security office in your area. The United States government provides numerous locations nationwide for U.S. citizens -- and residents -- to obtain social security services. You can locate your nearest social security agency by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov and entering your zip code into the field marked "Social Security Branch Locator." If you don't have Internet access, all government run agencies are listed in the yellow or white pages or you may dial 3-1-1 and the non-emergency dispatch operators can connect you directly.
- 2). Determine what type of documentation is required to apply. You will have to show certain documents to prove your identity when you apply for a social security card. The type of identification required may vary from case to case depending upon your individual circumstances. For instance, to obtain an SS card for a U.S. child under 12 you may need to show a birth certificate and proof of citizenship. A replacement card for a foreign-born U.S. citizen may require citizenship papers and a state ID. Contact your local SS agency to determine what proof of identification you require.
- 3). Complete the application. Once you have established and gathered the proper documentation of your identity and citizenship status, you must complete a social security card application. Your local SS agency can provide you with the proper application or you can download a printable PDF version by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov. Typical application entries will include your name, parent's names, mailing address, race, sex, ethnicity and the social security numbers of your parents.
- 4). Submit your completed application with all applicable documents. You can visit your local social security card issuing agency or mail all required documentation along with your completed application. If you choose to mail your application and documents, it is advised to photo copy original documents and mail the copies in order to prevent losing them in the mail. If you send in the original documents, the Social Security agency processing your application will mail them back to you at the mailing address provided on the application.
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