The SSA SS-5 form is an essential document used to apply for a Social Security number in the United States. This form serves as the initial step for individuals seeking to access various benefits and services that require a Social Security number. Understanding its purpose and the application process can greatly simplify the journey toward obtaining this important identification.
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, taxation, and access to government services. This form is used by individuals of all ages, from newborns to adults, who need to apply for their first SSN or request a replacement for a lost or stolen card. Filling out the SSA SS-5 requires personal information such as your name, date of birth, and citizenship status. Additionally, it may ask for details about your parents if you're applying for a child. Understanding the requirements and the information needed to complete this form can make the application process smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re a parent applying for your child or an adult seeking a replacement card, knowing how to navigate the SSA SS-5 form is vital for ensuring you receive your Social Security number without unnecessary delays.
What is the SSA SS-5 form?
The SSA SS-5 form is an application for a Social Security card. It is used to request a new card, a replacement card, or to change the name on an existing card. This form is essential for individuals who need a Social Security number for various purposes, including employment, tax reporting, and accessing government services.
Who needs to fill out the SSA SS-5 form?
Anyone who requires a Social Security number or needs to update their information must complete the SSA SS-5 form. This includes U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and non-citizens who are legally residing in the United States. If you are applying for a card for a child or dependent, you will need to fill out the form on their behalf.
What information do I need to provide on the SSA SS-5 form?
You will need to provide personal information such as your name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents' names. If you are not a U.S. citizen, additional details about your immigration status may be required. Make sure to have all relevant documents ready, such as proof of identity and citizenship or immigration status, to support your application.
How do I submit the SSA SS-5 form?
You can submit the SSA SS-5 form in person at your local Social Security office or by mailing it to the appropriate address provided by the Social Security Administration. If you choose to mail the form, be sure to send it via a secure method to protect your personal information. In some cases, you may also be able to apply online, depending on your eligibility.
How long does it take to receive my Social Security card after submitting the SSA SS-5 form?
After you submit your SSA SS-5 form, it typically takes about 10 to 14 business days to receive your Social Security card in the mail. However, processing times can vary based on the volume of applications and your specific situation. If you do not receive your card within this timeframe, consider contacting the Social Security Administration for an update.
Is there a fee to apply for a Social Security card using the SSA SS-5 form?
No, there is no fee to apply for a Social Security card using the SSA SS-5 form. The Social Security Administration provides this service free of charge. Be cautious of any websites or services that may try to charge you for this application process.
What should I do if I make a mistake on the SSA SS-5 form?
If you realize that you made a mistake on the SSA SS-5 form after submitting it, do not panic. You can correct your information by contacting the Social Security Administration. Depending on the error, they may advise you to submit a new form or provide additional documentation to rectify the mistake. Always double-check your application before submission to minimize errors.
The SSA SS-5 form is essential for applying for a Social Security number. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out and using this form:
The SSA SS-5 form is an important document used to apply for a Social Security number (SSN) in the United States. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form that can lead to confusion. Here are nine common misunderstandings:
This is not true. Only certain individuals, such as U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens, can apply for an SSN. There are specific eligibility requirements that must be met.
Many people believe that the SS-5 form is exclusively for children. In reality, it can be used by individuals of any age who need to obtain an SSN for the first time or to replace a lost or stolen card.
While applying in person is an option, individuals can also submit their application by mail, especially if they are applying for a replacement card. However, specific guidelines must be followed for mailing the form.
Some people think that the form must be completed using ink only. However, it can also be filled out electronically and printed, as long as it is signed by the applicant.
This is a misconception. Applying for an SSN using the SSA SS-5 form is free of charge. No fees are associated with obtaining an SSN.
While a birth certificate is often required, it is not the only acceptable form of identification. Other documents, such as a passport or immigration papers, may also be used to verify identity and age.
This is incorrect. Non-citizens who are legally present in the U.S. can also apply for an SSN using the SS-5 form, provided they meet the necessary eligibility criteria.
While it is true that undocumented immigrants generally cannot obtain an SSN, there are specific circumstances under which certain non-citizens may qualify. It's important to consult the SSA for detailed information.
Many people assume that their application will be processed immediately. In reality, processing times can vary, and it may take several weeks to receive the SSN card, depending on the volume of applications and other factors.
Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the process of applying for an SSN more effectively. If you have further questions, it is always best to consult the Social Security Administration's official website or contact them directly for assistance.
Form SS-5 (10-2021) UF
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Use (11-2019) UF Until Stock Is Exhausted
OMB No. 0960-0066
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
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 1-800-772-1213 or visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov.
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, work-authorized immigration status. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have DHS work authorization, you must prove that you have a valid non-work reason for requesting a card. See page 2 for an explanation of acceptable documents.
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, work-authorized status. See page 2 for an explanation of acceptable documents.
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, work-authorized status. See page 2 for an explanation of acceptable documents.
LIMITS ON REPLACEMENT SOCIAL SECURITY CARDS
Public Law 108-458 limits the number of replacement Social Security cards you may receive to 3 per calendar year and 10 in a lifetime. Cards issued to reflect changes to your legal name or changes to a work authorization legend do not count toward these limits. We may also grant exceptions to these limits if you provide evidence from an official source to establish that a Social Security card is required.
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 1-800-772-1213. You can also find your nearest office or Card Center in your local phone book.
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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 1-800-772-1213 if you cannot provide these documents.
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. State-issued non-driver identity card; or
●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 I-551, I-94, or I-766. If you are an international student or exchange visitor, you may need to provide additional documents, such as Form I-20, DS-2019, or a letter authorizing employment from your school and employer (F-1) or sponsor (J-1). We CANNOT accept a receipt showing you applied for the document. If you are not authorized to work in the U.S., we can issue you a Social Security card only if you need the number for a valid non-work reason. Your card will be marked to show you cannot work and if you do work, we will notify DHS. See page 3, item 5 for more information.
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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 self-explanatory or are discussed below. The numbers match the numbered items on the form. If you are completing this form for someone else, please complete the items as they apply to that person.
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.
Page 4 of 5
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 205 and 702 of the Social Security Act, as amended, allow us to collect this information. Furnishing us this information is voluntary. However, failing to provide all or part of the information may prevent us from assigning you a Social Security number and issuing you a new or replacement Social Security card.
We will use the information you provide to issue you a replacement Social Security card. We may also share your information for the following purposes, called routine uses:
•To Federal, State, and local entities to assist them with administering income maintenance and health maintenance programs, when a Federal statute authorizes them to use the Social Security number; and
•To student volunteers, persons working under a personal services contract, and others when they need access to information in our records in order to perform their assigned agency duties.
In addition, we may share this information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other Federal laws. For example, where authorized, we may use and disclose this information in computer matching programs, in which our records are compared with other records to establish or verify a person’s eligibility for Federal benefit programs and for repayment of incorrect or delinquent debts under these programs.
A list of additional routine uses is available in our Privacy Act System of Records Notices (SORN) 60-0058, entitled Master Files of Social Security Number (SSN) Holders and SSN Applications, as published in the Federal Register (FR) on December 29, 2010, at 75 FR 82121. Additional information, and a full listing of all of our SORNs, is available on our website at www.ssa.gov/privacy.
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 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You may send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: SSA, 6401 Security Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401. Send only comments relating to our time estimate to this address, not the completed form.
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NAME
First
Full Middle Name
Last
1
TO BE SHOWN ON CARD
FULL NAME AT BIRTH
IF OTHER THAN ABOVE
OTHER NAMES USED
2
Social Security number previously assigned to the person
listed in item 1
3
PLACE OF
Office
4
DATE
BIRTH
Use Only
OF
(Do Not Abbreviate)
City
State or Foreign Country
FCI
MM/DD/YYYY
5
CITIZENSHIP
U.S. Citizen
Legal Alien
Legal Alien Not Allowed To
Other (See
Allowed To
Work(See Instructions On
Instructions On
(Check One)
Work
Page 3)
ETHNICITY
RACE
Native Hawaiian
American Indian
Other Pacific
6
Are You Hispanic or Latino?
7
Select One or More
Alaska Native
Black/African
Islander
(Your Response is Voluntary)
(Your Response
White
Yes
No
is Voluntary)
Asian
American
8
SEX
Male
Female
A. PARENT/ MOTHER'S
9
NAME AT HER BIRTH
B. PARENT/ MOTHER'S SOCIAL SECURITY
Unknown
NUMBER (See instructions for 9B on Page 3)
A. PARENT/ FATHER'S
10
B. PARENT/ FATHER'S SOCIAL SECURITY
NUMBER (See instructions for 10B on Page 3)
11
Has the person listed in item 1 or anyone acting on his/her behalf ever filed for or received a Social Security number card
before?
Don't Know (If "don't know," skip to question 14.)
Yes (If "yes" answer questions 12-13)
12
Name shown on the most recent Social
Security card issued for the person
13
Enter any different date of birth if used on an
earlier application for a card
14
DATETODAY'S
15
NUMBERDAYTIME PHONE
Area Code
Number
16
MAILING ADDRESS
Street
Address,
Apt. No., PO Box, Rural
Route No.
State/Foreign Country
ZIP Code
I declare under penalty of perjury that I have examined all the information on this form, and on any accompanying
17
statements or forms, and it is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
YOUR SIGNATURE
18
YOUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE PERSON IN ITEM 1 IS:
Self
Natural Or
Legal
Other
Adoptive Parent
Guardian
Specify
DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE (FOR SSA USE ONLY)
NPN
DOC
NTI
CAN
ITV
PBC
EVI
EVA
EVC
PRA
NWR
DNR
UNIT
EVIDENCE SUBMITTED
SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF EMPLOYEE(S)
REVIEWING EVIDENCE AND/OR CONDUCTING
INTERVIEW
DCL
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A well-prepared Nevada Promissory Note is crucial for ensuring clarity between lenders and borrowers, effectively serving as a formal agreement that stipulates the terms of repayment. By accurately detailing the amount owed, interest rates, and timelines, it minimizes misunderstandings. For those needing to formalize a loan agreement, accessing the necessary documentation can begin with this useful Promissory Note.
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Incorrect Name Entry: Many individuals mistakenly enter their name in the wrong format. It's essential to use the full legal name as it appears on official documents. This includes middle names or initials, which should not be omitted.
Missing Social Security Number: Some applicants forget to include their existing Social Security number if they have one. This can lead to delays in processing the application, so it’s crucial to double-check this section.
Inaccurate Date of Birth: A common error involves entering the wrong date of birth. This mistake can create complications, especially if the date does not match other official records. Always verify this information before submission.
Omitting Required Documentation: Applicants often neglect to provide necessary documents, such as proof of identity or citizenship. Failing to include these can result in a rejection of the application. It’s important to review the checklist of required documents carefully.
When filling out the SSA SS-5 form, it is crucial to approach the task with care. Here are some important do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
The SSA SS-5 form, used to apply for a Social Security card, shares similarities with the application forms for various government benefits. One such document is the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. This form requires individuals to provide proof of identity and employment eligibility in the United States. Both forms necessitate supporting documents that verify personal information, ensuring that the applicant's identity is legitimate and that they meet specific criteria for eligibility.
Another comparable document is the Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Certificate. This form is filled out by employees to determine the amount of federal income tax to withhold from their paychecks. Like the SSA SS-5, the W-4 requires personal information, including the taxpayer's name and Social Security number, to ensure accurate processing and compliance with tax laws.
The Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, is also similar in that it requires personal information for tax reporting purposes. Individuals must provide their Social Security number on this form, linking their tax obligations to their identity. Both the 1040 and SSA SS-5 serve to establish identity for different governmental functions, ensuring that records are accurate and up-to-date.
The Passport Application Form (DS-11) is another document that parallels the SSA SS-5. When applying for a U.S. passport, individuals must provide proof of citizenship and identity. Similar to the SSA SS-5, this application requires supporting documentation, such as a birth certificate or prior passport, to verify the applicant's identity and citizenship status.
The Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, also bears resemblance to the SSA SS-5. This form is used by lawful permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. It requires personal information, including the applicant’s Social Security number, and demands documentation that proves the applicant's identity and residency status, paralleling the identity verification process of the SSA SS-5.
In addition to the documents mentioned, it is important to note the specificity required when dealing with vehicle transactions, such as the California ATV Bill of Sale form, which records the sale and transfer of an all-terrain vehicle. This form acts as proof of purchase and is essential for the new owner’s registration process, ultimately linking to resources like autobillofsaleform.com/atv-bill-of-sale-form/california-atv-bill-of-sale-form/ to ensure a smooth transition of ownership and compliance with local laws.
The Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is similar in its requirement for personal identification. International students must present this form to apply for a student visa, which also necessitates proof of identity and eligibility. Both the I-20 and SSA SS-5 play crucial roles in establishing an individual’s legal status in the U.S.
The Form 1099, Miscellaneous Income, is another document that requires the Social Security number for reporting purposes. This form is used by businesses to report payments made to individuals. Like the SSA SS-5, it emphasizes the importance of accurate personal information to ensure proper tax reporting and compliance with federal regulations.
Finally, the Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, also aligns with the SSA SS-5 in its need for personal identification. This form allows individuals to request copies of their tax returns from the IRS, requiring their Social Security number and other identifying information. Both forms are essential for verifying identity and ensuring the accuracy of government records.