You can get a Social Security number by visiting your local Social Security office or explore by mail, depending on your age and citizenship status

A Social Security number is a nine-digit identifier the government uses to track your earnings, taxes, and benefits. If you don't have one yet, you'll need to request one from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The process differs slightly depending on whether you're a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a noncitizen authorized to work.

The fastest route is usually to visit your local Social Security office in person. You can also explore by mail if you prefer, though it takes longer. Either way, you'll need to bring specific documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your local Social Security office in person, or call 1-800-772-1213 to find the office nearest you and ask about current wait times.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease).
  • If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will also need to show your immigration documents, such as your green card or work authorization card.
  • Processing typically takes two to four weeks if you explore in person, or four to six weeks if you explore by mail.
  • You do not need to pay any fee to request a Social Security number.

What documents to bring to the Social Security office

The SSA requires you to show original documents or certified copies. A photocopy or digital image is not enough. You will need to bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of age, and proof of citizenship or immigration status.

For proof of identity, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you don't have a photo ID, the SSA will accept a school ID, employee ID, or medical record with your name and identifying information.

For proof of age, bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport, consular report of birth, or other official birth record from your country of origin.

For proof of citizenship or immigration status, U.S. citizens should bring their passport or birth certificate (which also serves as proof of age). If you are a lawful permanent resident or noncitizen authorized to work, bring your green card, employment authorization document (EAD), visa, or other official immigration paperwork. The specific document depends on your status.

How to find your local Social Security office

You can locate your nearest Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf and hard of hearing callers). The representative can tell you the office address, hours, and current wait times. You can also visit the SSA website and use their office locator tool by entering your zip code.

Many Social Security offices now require you to make an appointment before visiting. When you call or visit in person, ask whether you need to schedule ahead. Some offices accept walk-ins during certain hours, but appointment slots often fill up weeks in advance, especially in busy areas.

explore by mail instead of in person

If you prefer not to visit an office, you can request a Social Security number by mail. read the process for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) from the SSA website, or call 1-800-772-1213 to have one mailed to you. Complete the form and gather your documents.

You will need to send certified copies of your documents, not originals. A certified copy is a copy that has been officially stamped or signed by the organization that issued the original document (such as your state's vital records office for a birth certificate). Regular photocopies will not be accepted.

Mail your completed form and certified documents to your local Social Security office. The address will be listed on the form or on the SSA website. Processing by mail typically takes four to six weeks, compared to two to four weeks if you explore in person.

What happens after you submit your request

Once you submit your process, the SSA will review your documents and verify your information. If everything is in order, they will issue your Social Security number and mail you a Social Security card. The card arrives in a plain envelope with no return address.

If the SSA needs more information or has questions about your documents, they will contact you by phone or mail. Keep your process receipt or confirmation number so you can check the status of your request. You can call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your process status.

Your Social Security card is not a form of ID on its own — it's a record of your number. You will still need a government-issued photo ID for most purposes. The card itself is made of paper and can wear out, but you can request a replacement at any time by visiting your local Social Security office or explore by mail.

Special situations: Noncitizens and work authorization

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a Social Security number if you are a lawful permanent resident or have been authorized to work in the United States. You will need to show your immigration documents along with your identity and age documents.

Noncitizens authorized to work should bring their employment authorization document (EAD), which shows your work permit number and expiration date. Lawful permanent residents should bring their green card. If you have a visa that allows you to work, bring your passport and visa along with your other documents.

If your work authorization is temporary or will expire, the SSA will issue you a Social Security number that is valid only while you are authorized to work. Once your authorization expires, you cannot use that number for employment, though you may be able to renew it if your status is extended.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you explore in person at a Social Security office, you will typically receive your card in two to four weeks. If you explore by mail, it usually takes four to six weeks. The SSA will mail your card to the address you provide on your process.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Social Security office?

Many Social Security offices now require appointments, especially in urban areas. Call 1-800-772-1213 or check the SSA website to find out whether your local office requires one. Some offices have limited walk-in hours, but it's best to schedule ahead to avoid a long wait.

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. Bring your passport, consular report of birth, or official birth certificate from your country of origin, along with your other identity and immigration documents. The SSA will verify your documents with the appropriate government agencies.

Can I get a Social Security number if I don't have a birth certificate?

If you don't have a birth certificate, you can request one from your state's vital records office before explore for a Social Security number. The SSA requires proof of age, and a birth certificate is the most common document. If you cannot obtain one, contact your local Social Security office to ask about other documents they may accept.

Is there a fee to request a Social Security number?

No. The SSA does not charge any fee for issuing a Social Security number or card. If someone offers to help you get a Social Security number for a fee, they are not legitimate. You can always contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 for free information.