how the process works for a Social Security number

You explore for a Social Security number by filling out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) and submitting it in person at your local Social Security office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will ask for proof of age, identity, and citizenship or lawful immigration status. Most people receive their card in the mail within 1 to 2 weeks after approval.

You do not need to have a job lined up or a bank account open to request a number. You need one to work legally in the United States, to open a bank account, to pay taxes, or to build a credit history. Children can receive one at birth, and adults can request one at any time.

Key Takeaways

  • Form SS-5 is the official process, available on the SSA website or at your local Social Security office.
  • You must bring original or certified copies of documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status — photocopies alone are not accepted.
  • In-person process at a Social Security office is the fastest route for most people, though some groups can mail their applications.
  • Processing takes 1 to 2 weeks after the SSA receives your completed process and documents.
  • You will receive your card by mail; the SSA does not issue cards on the spot.

What documents you need to bring

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of age, proof of identity, and proof of citizenship or lawful immigration status. You must bring original documents or certified copies — the SSA will not accept photocopies, faxes, or notarized copies unless the notary is a Social Security employee.

For proof of age, bring your birth certificate, passport, or adoption decree. For proof of identity, bring a state-issued ID, passport, driver's license, or school ID (if you are under 18). For citizenship, bring your U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents — a green card, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or I-94 arrival/departure record.

If your documents are in another language, bring the original and an English translation certified by the translator. The SSA keeps copies of what you submit, so bring originals if you need them back for other purposes.

Where and how to submit your process

The fastest way is to visit your local Social Security office in person with your completed Form SS-5 and documents. You do not need an appointment at most offices — walk-ins are accepted, though arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator.

You can also mail your process if you are age 12 or older and have a state-issued ID or passport. Print Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your documents to the address listed on the form. Mail takes longer — allow 3 to 4 weeks total — and the SSA may contact you if documents are missing or unclear.

Do not send original documents by mail. Make copies instead, and keep the originals for yourself. If the SSA needs to verify something, they will contact you by phone or mail.

What happens after you submit

After you submit your process and documents, the SSA reviews them to confirm your identity and may be able to access. If everything is in order, they process your request and mail your card to the address you provided. This usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods or if documents need verification.

If the SSA needs more information, they will contact you by phone or mail. Check the phone number and address you wrote on the form to make sure they are correct. If you do not hear back within 3 weeks, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to check the status.

Once your card arrives, check it for errors — your name, date of birth, and number should all be correct. If something is wrong, take the card and your documents back to your local Social Security office to request a replacement.

Special situations: Infants, immigrants, and name changes

If you are explore for a newborn, you can request a number at the hospital when the baby is born, or explore later using the same process. You will need the baby's birth certificate and proof of your identity and relationship to the child.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still receive a Social Security number if you have a valid visa or immigration status that allows you to work or study in the United States. Bring your passport and immigration documents along with proof of age and identity. Refugees and asylees can explore when ready upon arrival.

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring your original Social Security card (if you have one) and a document proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will issue a new card with your updated name at no cost.

If you have lost or damaged your card

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement by visiting your local Social Security office or by mail using Form SS-5. You do not need to bring as many documents for a replacement — usually just proof of identity and your original Social Security number. If you do not remember your number, bring documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship as if you were explore new.

The SSA allows you to request up to three replacement cards in a year and nine in your lifetime. If you need more than that, you will have to explain why to a Social Security employee in person.

Costs and timelines

There is no cost to request a Social Security number or a replacement card. The SSA does not charge a fee for any part of the process.

Timeline depends on how you submit: in-person applications usually process within 1 to 2 weeks, while mailed applications take 3 to 4 weeks. During high-volume periods — such as after a major holiday or disaster — processing may take longer. You can check the status of your process by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring an adoption decree, passport, or other document proving your age. The SSA accepts multiple forms of proof — you just need something official that shows when you were born. If you do not have any of those, contact your local Social Security office to ask what alternatives they can accept.

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

Most people receive their card within 1 to 2 weeks of submitting their process in person. Mailed applications take 3 to 4 weeks. During busy periods, it may take longer. You can call 1-800-772-1213 to check on your process after two weeks.

Do I need a job offer to get a Social Security number?

No. You can request a Social Security number at any time, whether or not you have a job. Many people get one as infants, and others request one when they are ready to work, open a bank account, or build credit.

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 have a valid visa or immigration status. Bring your passport, birth certificate, and immigration documents (green card, visa, EAD, or I-94) along with proof of identity. Naturalized citizens should bring their naturalization certificate instead of a foreign birth certificate.

Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?

No. The SSA mails cards directly to the address you provide on your process. You cannot have someone else collect it from the office. If you move before your card arrives, contact the SSA to update your address.