The Social Security Administration issues your Social Security number

The Social Security Administration (SSA), a federal agency, is the only organisation that issues Social Security numbers in the United States. You cannot get a Social Security number from any other government body, bank, employer, or private company. The SSA creates the number, maintains the record, and is the source for verifying that the number belongs to you.

The SSA issues numbers to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain non-citizens with work authorisation. Each number is unique and stays with you for life. The SSA does not reissue numbers after death, so no two living people hold the same number.

Key Takeaways

  • The Social Security Administration is the sole federal agency that issues Social Security numbers; no state, local, or private organisation can issue one.
  • You can request a Social Security number in person at your local SSA field office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online through a limited process for certain applicants.
  • You will need to provide proof of citizenship or immigration status, proof of age, and proof of identity — the exact documents depend on your situation.
  • Processing time varies: in-person applications typically take one to two weeks, while mail applications can take four weeks or longer.
  • If you already have a number and need to replace a lost card or correct a record, you still work through the SSA, not through any other agency.

How to request a Social Security number from the SSA

You have three main routes to request a Social Security number: in person at an SSA field office, by mail, or online if you meet specific requirements.

The in-person route is usually fastest. You visit your local SSA field office, bring the required documents, and complete Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) on site. Staff will review your documents and submit your process. You typically receive your card by mail within one to two weeks.

The mail route requires you to complete Form SS-5, gather your documents, and send them to your state's SSA processing centre. You can find the correct address on the SSA website. This process takes longer — usually four weeks or more — because documents travel by post and staff process applications in batches.

The online route is available only if you are a U.S. citizen aged 18 or older with a state-issued driver's licence or ID card from a participating state. You create an account on the SSA's online portal, upload images of your documents, and complete the process digitally. Processing time is similar to in-person applications.

Documents you need to bring or send

The SSA requires three types of proof: citizenship or immigration status, age, and identity. The exact documents depend on whether you are a citizen, permanent resident, or non-citizen with work authorisation.

For proof of citizenship, bring an original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Naturalisation. If you were born outside the United States, a U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalisation works. Permanent residents and non-citizens with work authorisation bring their immigration documents — typically a green card, employment authorisation document (EAD), or visa.

For proof of age, bring a birth certificate, passport, or state ID. The document must show your date of birth clearly.

For proof of identity, bring a state-issued driver's licence, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA accepts other documents like a school ID, employee ID, or medical record — but you may need to bring multiple documents.

If you are explore on behalf of a child, you also bring proof that you are the parent or legal guardian, such as a birth certificate listing you as the parent or a court order granting guardianship.

When the SSA issues a number to newborns

Parents can request a Social Security number for a newborn at the hospital or birthing centre when they register the birth. This is optional but common because many parents want the number for tax purposes and to open a savings account.

If you do not request a number at birth, you can explore later using the same process as anyone else — in person, by mail, or online. There is no age limit for requesting a first Social Security number.

Replacing a lost or damaged card

If your Social Security card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you request a replacement through the SSA using the same three methods: in person, by mail, or online. You still complete Form SS-5 and bring proof of identity and citizenship.

You can request up to three replacement cards per year and ten in your lifetime, though the SSA may ask why you need multiple replacements. Replacement cards are free.

Correcting errors on your Social Security record

If your name, date of birth, or citizenship status is wrong on the SSA's record, you must contact the SSA to correct it. This is different from replacing a card — you are changing the information the SSA holds about you, not just getting a new card with the same number.

You visit an SSA field office or submit documents by mail with proof of the correct information. For example, if your name changed due to marriage, you bring a marriage certificate. If your date of birth is wrong, you bring a birth certificate. The SSA reviews the documents and updates its records. You then receive a new card reflecting the corrected information.

What happens after you receive your number

Once you have a Social Security number, you use it to work, pay taxes, open bank accounts, and build credit history. Your employer uses it to report your wages to the SSA and the IRS. Banks and credit card companies use it to check your credit report.

You do not need to renew or reactivate a Social Security number. It remains valid for life. If you change your name, address, or citizenship status, you may need to update your record with the SSA, but your number stays the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security number without a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, the SSA accepts other proof of age such as a passport, state ID, or school record. You still need proof of citizenship or immigration status and proof of identity. Contact your local SSA field office to discuss which documents you can provide.

How long does it take to get a Social Security number?

In-person applications typically take one to two weeks. Mail applications take four weeks or longer depending on processing time and mail delivery. Online applications for may be able to access applicants take similar time to in-person applications. The SSA will mail your card to you once it is processed.

Can I work before my Social Security number arrives?

No. Your employer needs your Social Security number before you start work so they can report your wages correctly. You should request your number before your start date. If you are explore in person, you can often receive a temporary number on the same day to give your employer while you wait for your card.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can still get a Social Security number if you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or non-citizen with work authorisation. Bring proof of your immigration status (such as a passport or green card), proof of age, and proof of identity. The process is the same as for people born in the United States.

Do I need to go to the SSA office in person, or can I do everything by mail?

You can do everything by mail if you prefer, though it takes longer. You complete Form SS-5, gather your documents, and mail them to your state's SSA processing centre. In-person applications are faster and allow you to ask questions directly. Online applications are available only if you meet specific requirements.