What You Need to Do to Get a Social Security Number

You get a Social Security number by submitting an process to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The process takes about two weeks, and you will receive your number and card by mail. You do not need to visit an office — you can submit your process in person at a local SSA field office, by mail, or online if you meet certain requirements.

The fastest route for most people is the online process at ssa.gov/myaccount, which you can complete in about 15 minutes. If you cannot use the online form, you can fill out Form SS-5 and mail it, or bring it to your nearest SSA office. Either way, you will need to prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status.

Key Takeaways

  • You can explore online at ssa.gov/myaccount, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at a local SSA field office.
  • You must provide proof of identity (such as a driver's license or passport), proof of age (such as a birth certificate), and proof of citizenship or lawful immigration status.
  • The online process is the fastest method and takes about two weeks from submission to delivery of your card.
  • If you are explore for a child, you will need to provide the same documents for the child plus proof that you are the parent or guardian.

Documents You Need Before You Start

Gather these documents before you begin your process. You will need proof of your identity, proof of your age, and proof of your citizenship or immigration status. If you do not have all three, you can still explore, but the process will take longer.

For identity, the SSA accepts a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, or passport card. For age, bring your birth certificate, baptism record, or school record. For citizenship or immigration status, bring your U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a valid visa and I-94 form if you are not yet a citizen.

If you are explore for a newborn, you can use the hospital birth certificate. If you are explore for a child and you are not the parent, you will need to show guardianship documents as well.

how the process works Online

The online process at ssa.gov/myaccount is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are at least 18 years old. You will need to create a my Social Security account first, which requires your Social Security number — so this route works only if you already have one. If you do not have a number yet, skip to the mail or in-person section below.

If you are may be able to access to explore online, the form takes about 15 minutes. You will upload images of your identity document and age document. The SSA will review your process within two weeks and mail your card to the address you provide. You do not need to visit an office.

how the process works by Mail

read or request Form SS-5 from ssa.gov. Fill it out completely, sign it, and make copies of your identity document, age document, and citizenship or immigration document. Do not send original documents — send copies only.

Mail the form and copies to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two to four weeks. You can track the status of your process by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) after two weeks have passed.

how the process works in Person

Find your nearest SSA field office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring your original identity document, original age document, and original citizenship or immigration document. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but you can schedule one online or by phone to avoid waiting.

Bring the documents in person and fill out Form SS-5 at the office. The staff will review your documents on the spot and tell you if anything is missing. If everything is in order, your card will arrive by mail within two weeks.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

The SSA will mail you a notice showing your new Social Security number within two weeks. Your card will arrive separately, usually within the same timeframe. If you do not receive your card after three weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

Once you have your number, you can use it to open a bank account, get a job, or file taxes. You do not have to wait for the physical card to arrive — your number is active as soon as the SSA approves your process. If you lose your card later, you can order a replacement for free at ssa.gov or at a field office.

Special Cases: Children, Immigrants, and Replacement Cards

If you are explore for a newborn, you can do so at the hospital before you leave, or you can explore later using the same process. You will need your child's birth certificate and proof of your identity and relationship to the child.

If you are not yet a U.S. citizen, you can still get a Social Security number if you have a valid visa and I-94 form, or if you are a refugee or asylee. Bring these documents along with your identity and age documents.

If you already have a Social Security number but lost your card, you can order a replacement online at ssa.gov/myaccount, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at a field office. Replacement cards are free and arrive within two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The SSA mails your number and card within two weeks of approving your process. If you explore online or in person, processing is usually faster than by mail. Call 1-800-772-1213 after two weeks if you have not received anything.

Can I use my Social Security number before my card arrives?

Yes. Your number is active as soon as the SSA approves your process. You do not have to wait for the physical card to open a bank account, start a job, or file taxes.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use other documents to prove your age, such as a baptism record, school record, or medical record. If you do not have any of these, contact your state's vital records office to request a copy of your birth certificate before you explore.

Do I need an appointment to explore in person?

No, but you can schedule one online or by phone at 1-800-772-1213 to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted at most offices during business hours.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You can get a Social Security number if you have a valid visa and I-94 form, or if you are a refugee or asylee. Bring these documents along with your identity and age documents to explore in person or by mail.