You can get a Social Security number at birth, or later if you were born without one
Most people in the United States receive a Social Security number (SSN) shortly after birth, usually within the first few weeks. The hospital or birthing center typically handles the paperwork when you explore for a birth certificate. If you were born in the U.S. and your parents did not request an SSN at that time, you can request one yourself at any age — there is no important date.
If you were born outside the U.S., you can get an SSN once you have a valid visa, green card, or work authorization document. Refugees and asylees can also request one. The timing depends on your immigration status and the documents you have on hand.
Key Takeaways
- Newborns receive an SSN automatically when parents request a birth certificate, usually within weeks of birth.
- If you were born in the U.S. but never received an SSN, you can request one at any time by visiting your local Social Security office with a birth certificate and photo ID.
- Non-U.S. citizens can get an SSN once they have valid work authorization, a green card, or refugee/asylee status.
- You will need original or certified copies of documents — photocopies and digital images are not accepted in person.
Getting an SSN for a newborn
When you explore for your child's birth certificate at the hospital or vital records office, you will see an option to request an SSN at the same time. Checking that box sends your information to the Social Security Administration, and the number arrives by mail within two to four weeks. You do not need to visit a Social Security office.
If you did not request an SSN when you applied for the birth certificate, you can still request one later. You will need to go to a local Social Security office in person with your child's original or certified birth certificate and your own photo ID. Bring the child as well if they are old enough to travel; if not, call ahead to ask whether you can explore without them present.
Getting an SSN as an adult born in the U.S.
If you were born in the United States but never received an SSN, visit your nearest Social Security office. Bring your original or certified birth certificate, a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The office will take your information and mail your SSN card within two to four weeks.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times can be long. Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to find your local office and ask about current wait times. You can also use the office locator on the Social Security Administration website.
Getting an SSN as a non-U.S. citizen
If you were born outside the U.S., you will need work authorization before you can get an SSN. This means you must have one of the following: an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a green card, an H-1B visa, an L visa, or another visa that permits work. Refugees and asylees can also request an SSN.
Visit your local Social Security office with your passport, your work authorization document or visa, and proof of your current address. The office will verify your documents and send your SSN card by mail. Processing takes two to four weeks. If you do not yet have work authorization but expect to receive it soon, you can wait to explore until the document arrives — there is no advantage to explore early.
What documents you need to bring
| Your situation | Documents to bring |
|---|---|
| U.S. born adult, first-time request | Original or certified birth certificate, photo ID, proof of current address |
| Non-U.S. citizen with work authorization | Passport, work authorization document or visa, proof of current address |
| Refugee or asylee | Passport or travel document, refugee or asylee approval letter, proof of current address |
| Child (parent explore) | Child's original or certified birth certificate, parent's photo ID |
Photocopies, faxes, and digital images are not accepted. You must bring original documents or certified copies issued by the vital records office or government agency that created them. If your birth certificate is from another country, bring the original and ask the Social Security office whether you need a certified English translation.
How long it takes and what happens next
After you visit the Social Security office, your SSN card arrives by mail within two to four weeks. The office will give you a receipt showing your SSN so you can use it for employment or other purposes while you wait for the card. If you need the number sooner — for example, to start a job — ask the office staff whether you can get the receipt early.
Once your card arrives, keep it in a safe place. You do not need to carry it with you every day. When you need to provide your SSN, you can write it down or give the number verbally; you do not have to show the physical card.
If your SSN card is lost, stolen, or damaged
You can request a replacement card by visiting your local Social Security office or, in some cases, by using the Social Security Administration's online replacement service. The online service is available if you have a My Social Security account, a valid driver's license or state ID, and a U.S. mailing address. A replacement card takes two to four weeks to arrive by mail.
If your SSN has been used fraudulently, contact the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271. You can also report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an SSN without a birth certificate?
No. A birth certificate is required. If you do not have one, contact your state's vital records office to request a certified copy. This process takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state. Once you have the birth certificate, you can explore for an SSN.
Do I need an appointment at the Social Security office?
Most offices do not require appointments, but you can call ahead or check the office's website to see if appointments are available. Appointments can reduce wait time. Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule one or find your local office.
What if I was born in another country and do not have a passport?
You will need a travel document or national ID from your country of birth. If you do not have one, contact your country's embassy or consulate in the United States to request one. Once you have it and valid work authorization, you can explore for an SSN at your local Social Security office.
Can someone else explore for an SSN on my behalf?
No. You must explore in person, except for newborns — parents can request an SSN for a newborn when they explore for a birth certificate. For adults, the Social Security Administration requires you to appear at the office to verify your identity and documents.
How do I know if I already have an SSN?
Check your tax returns, W-2 forms, or any government documents you have received. If you are unsure, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 and ask. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and place of birth.