How Do I Apply For A Social Security Card?

To legally work in the United States or handle most financial tasks, you’ll need a Social Security Number (SSN). This is true if you’re in the U.S. as a citizen, green card holder, or if you’re here with a work visa.

Having a Social Security Number will make it easier for you to open a bank account, build credit history, apply for loans, and receive Social Security benefits.

In this guide we will discuss the process of applying for a SSN, and the benefits of having a SSN.

• What is a Social Security Number?
• What is a Social Security card?
• How do I apply for a Social Security card?
• What documents will I need to apply for a Social Security card?
• Should My Documents Be Translated Into English?
• How can I request a replacement card?
• Who is eligible for a Social Security Number?

What is a Social Security Number?

A Social Security Number is a 9-digit identification number used by most people in the U.S. Social Security Numbers were created by the U.S. government in 1936.

The original purpose of the number was to track each individual person’s account within the Social Security program. The Social Security program provides income to people who can not make money due to retirement, death, or disability.

Since then, the number has become the most common way for the U.S. government to identify citizens, green card holders, and workers.

What is a Social Security card?

A Social Security card is a pocket-sized, official government document measuring 2.5 inches by 3.8 inches. The card is issued by the United States Social Security Administration (SSA).

Social Security cards display an individual’s unique nine-digit Social Security number, full name, and date of birth. The card also signifies that it was issued by the federal agency SSA.

How do I apply for a Social Security card?

There are three ways for immigrants without a Social Security Number to apply for one:

• Apply during the visa application process before arriving in the United States.
• Apply if lawfully present in the U.S. and newly seeking work authorization, or seeking adjustment of status.
• Apply at a local Social Security office if you’re already in the United States.

Apply during the visa application process before arriving in the United States.

If you’re applying to become a Lawful Permanent Resident from your home country, you can streamline the process by including the SSN request in your visa application. This eliminates the need for a separate visit to a Social Security office upon your arrival in the United States.

Complete the visa application using the standard procedure, either through the paper Form DS-230 or the online Form DS-260 with the State Department. These forms will have a section dedicated specifically to the task of obtaining a Social Security Number.

The question should say something like the following: “Do you want the Social Security Administration to assign you an SSN (and issue a card) or issue you a new card (if you have an SSN)? You must answer “Yes” to this question and to the “Consent To Disclosure” in order to receive an SSN and/or card.”

So, select “yes” and then the necessary steps will then be handled by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Your Social Security card should be delivered to your U.S. mailing address within three weeks of arriving in the United States.

Apply if you’re lawfully present in the U.S. and newly seeking work authorization, or seeking adjustment of status.

When you’re applying for work authorization, or seeking to adjust your status, you will be able to apply for a SSN on your application. Form I-765 and Form I-485. Both forms include a dedicated section to request a Social Security card.

The question should say something like the following: “Do you want the SSA to issue you a Social Security card?” Select “yes” in order to receive a SSN when your application is processed.

You have the option to submit both Form I-765 and Form I-485 either online or by mail. Your Social Security card should be delivered to your U.S. mailing address within three weeks of your Form I-765 being processed.

Apply at a local Social Security office if you’re already in the United States.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, and you’re already legally in the U.S., you must apply for a Social Security Number in person at a local Social Security office.

This is true whether you’re in the U.S. as an immigrant, or if you’re only in the U.S. for work purposes.

If you’re applying for a Social Security Number at a local office, you will be applying using Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card.

If you’re not sure where to find a local Social Security field office, the Social Security Administration provides a tool to help you locate a field office near your zip code.

What documents will I need to apply for a Social Security Card?

In order to apply for a Social Security Number, you will most likely need several documents. The purpose of these documents is to prove your identity and legal status. The following is a list of documents that could potentially be needed.

• An unexpired foreign passport
• Form I-551, Lawful Permanent Resident Card
• Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
• An admission stamp in an unexpired foreign passport showing permission to work.
• F-1 or M-1 students must show their Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status – Form I-20.
• J-1 or J-2 exchange visitors must show their Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status – Form DS-2019.
• Driver’s license
• State-issued Identification.

You may need some documents specifically to prove your age. These may include the following:

• Birth certificate
• Religious record established before age five showing your age or date of birth. This would be something like a baptismal certificate, or a religious dedication certificate.
• Adoption Decree

Should My Documents Be Translated Into English?

Yes, both USCIS and the Social Security Administration require a certified translation of any documents that are not in English. To guarantee that you receive your Social Security Number without delay, it helps to have a certified translation.

Some documents that commonly need to be translated to receive a SSN include:

• Criminal records
• Birth certificates
• Military service records
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce decrees
• Academic transcripts

You can order a certified translation of these documents from our online store:

Order Your Certified Translation

How can I request a replacement card?

For non-U.S. citizens, obtaining a replacement Social Security card typically requires a visit to an SSA office. Generally, online replacement services are available only to U.S. citizens. Prepare to present the same documentation required for obtaining your original card.

If you applied for a Social Security Number along with your visa or work authorization application, expect the card to be delivered by mail within three weeks after your arrival in the United States. However, if you do not receive your card, contact the SSA office promptly or consider requesting a replacement card.

Important Note: The replacement card will bear the same Social Security Number as your original card; it serves as a substitute for the physical card.

If you believe you require a new Social Security Number due to identity theft concerns, refer to SSA.gov for detailed information.

Who is eligible for a Social Security Number?

Anyone who is lawfully employed in the United States is required to have a Social Security Number. Therefore, if you are applying for a work visa or intend to work as a permanent resident, obtaining your SSN is a necessary step. This is true whether you’re simply working in the U.S. or if you’re immigrating to the U.S.

After you receive a Social Security card, you can start the process of paying Social Security taxes and accumulating work credits. If your country of origin has established a totalization agreement with the United States, there’s the added benefit of transferring credits.

After accumulating a minimum of 40 work credits, you may qualify for benefits. However, eligibility for benefits requires that you be either over the age of 62 or disabled. Additionally, benefits may be extended to you if you are the child or spouse of a beneficiary or the surviving family member of a deceased worker.

Author: Aaron Randolph | LinkedIn