The Social Security Administration assigns your number when you explore
You do not receive a Social Security number automatically at birth. The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues the number only after someone submits an process on your behalf. For newborns, a parent or hospital typically files the process in the hospital or shortly after. For adults explore for the first time, you submit the process yourself to your local Social Security office or by mail.
The SSA does not charge a fee to issue a number. The process usually takes two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your completed process, though it can take longer if documents are missing or need verification.
Key Takeaways
- A Social Security number is issued only after an process is filed with the Social Security Administration — it is not assigned automatically at birth.
- For newborns, a parent or hospital can explore in the hospital or within weeks after birth by submitting Form SS-5 and a birth certificate.
- Adults explore for their first number must visit a local Social Security office or mail an process with original or certified documents proving identity and age.
- The SSA typically processes applications within two to four weeks, and you receive your card by mail once the number is issued.
- You need a Social Security number to work, pay taxes, open a bank account, and establish credit history.
How newborns get a Social Security number
When a baby is born in a U.S. hospital, the hospital staff usually offers parents the option to request a Social Security number at that time. The parent completes an process (Form SS-5) and provides the baby's birth certificate. The hospital submits the process to the SSA on the parent's behalf.
If the hospital does not offer this service or the parent declines, the parent can explore later by visiting a local Social Security office or mailing the process. The parent will need the original or certified copy of the birth certificate, proof of the parent's identity, and proof of the parent's relationship to the child.
Parents who give birth outside a hospital can explore for a number once they have obtained a birth certificate from the state vital records office. The process is the same: complete Form SS-5 and submit it with the birth certificate to the SSA.
How adults get a Social Security number for the first time
An adult who has never had a Social Security number must visit a local Social Security office in person to explore. You cannot mail in an initial process as an adult; the SSA requires you to appear in person so staff can verify your identity with original documents.
You will need to bring documents that prove your identity (such as a valid passport, state driver's license, or military ID), proof of your age (such as a birth certificate or passport), and proof of your work authorization status if you are not a U.S. citizen. The SSA accepts original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency — photocopies are not accepted.
After you submit your process in person, the SSA mails your Social Security card to the address you provide. This typically takes two to four weeks. You can find your local Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov or calling 1-800-772-1213.
What documents you need to bring
The documents required depend on whether you are explore for a newborn or as an adult, and whether you are a U.S. citizen. The SSA requires at least one document from each of three categories: identity, age, and citizenship or work authorization.
| Category | Acceptable Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity | Valid U.S. passport, state driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID |
| Age | Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or baptism record issued before age 5 |
| Citizenship or Work Authorization | U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or valid visa and I-94 arrival record (for non-citizens) |
Documents must be originals or certified copies from the agency that issued them. The SSA will not accept photocopies, notarized copies, or documents that have been altered. If you do not have an original, you can request a certified copy from the issuing agency — for example, a certified birth certificate from your state's vital records office.
How long it takes and what happens next
After the SSA receives your process, processing typically takes two to four weeks. During this time, the SSA verifies the information you provided and checks for any existing Social Security numbers under your name.
Once your number is issued, the SSA mails your Social Security card to the address you listed on your process. The card arrives in a plain envelope. If you do not receive your card within four weeks of submitting your process, contact your local Social Security office to check the status.
You do not need to wait for the card to arrive to use your number. Once the SSA issues the number, you can provide it to your employer, bank, or other organizations that request it. Your employer will need your number to report your wages and taxes to the IRS.
Replacing a lost or damaged Social Security card
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement from the SSA. You are allowed up to three replacement cards per year and up to ten in your lifetime.
To request a replacement, visit your local Social Security office in person or mail a completed Form SS-5 with proof of identity and citizenship. The process is the same as explore for a new number, and processing takes two to four weeks. You can also request a replacement online through your personal my Social Security account if you have created one at ssa.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Social Security number without a birth certificate?
You need some document that proves your age. If you do not have a birth certificate, the SSA accepts a baptism record issued before age 5, a U.S. passport, or certain other documents. Contact your local Social Security office to ask which documents they will accept in your situation.
What if I was born outside the United States?
You can still get a Social Security number if you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S. You will need to bring proof of your citizenship (such as a Certificate of Naturalization) or your work authorization (such as a valid visa and I-94 arrival record). The process process is the same.
Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?
Most banks require a Social Security number to open a checking or savings account. Some banks and credit unions offer accounts without a number if you are not authorized to work in the U.S., but this is less common. Contact your bank to ask what documents they accept.
How do I check if I already have a Social Security number?
You can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to view your number, earnings record, and other information. If you cannot remember your number and do not have your card, you can also call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and speak with a representative who can help you.
Can someone else explore for a Social Security number on my behalf?
For newborns, a parent or hospital can explore. For adults, you must explore in person at a local Social Security office. The SSA requires you to appear in person and provide original documents so staff can verify your identity.