Sections
A Social Security number is issued by the Social Security Administration to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens who work, attend school, or have a valid nonwork reason[1]. Applicants must provide at least two original documents proving age, identity, and citizenship or lawful immigration status[2], attend an in-person interview if age 12 or older[3], and typically receive the card within 7–10 business days after approval[4]. First-time applicants born in the U.S. may wait up to 12 weeks for birth record verification[5]. Begin by gathering acceptable identity documents such as a U.S. driver's license or passport[6].
What You Receive
Original Social Security Card
You receive a physical card displaying your nine-digit Social Security number and legal name within 7–10 business days after the SSA processes your application [4]. For U.S.-born applicants requiring birth record verification, delivery may extend up to 12 weeks [5].
Permanent Identification Number
Your SSN remains yours for life and enables employment authorization, tax filing, and access to federal benefits. Both U.S. citizens and certain noncitizens with work authorization or valid nonwork reasons can request this number [1].
Verified Identity Documentation
The SSA confirms your age, identity, and citizenship or lawful immigration status using at least two original or custodian-certified documents before issuing your card [2]. Acceptable identity evidence includes a U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID, or passport [6].
Legal Employment Eligibility
With an SSN, you gain the ability to work legally in the United States and have Social Security taxes withheld for future retirement and disability benefits. Noncitizens must demonstrate Department of Homeland Security employment authorization or a qualifying nonwork reason [2].
- Determine your eligibility
All U.S. citizens can request a Social Security number[1]. Noncitizens may qualify if they work, attend school, or have a valid nonwork reason[1]. Lawfully present noncitizens without work authorization must provide a letter from a government agency explaining why they need the number and confirming they meet all requirements for a benefit or service except the SSN[2].
- Gather required documents
You need at least two original or certified documents proving age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or lawful work-authorized status[2]. For identity, the SSA prefers a U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID, or passport showing your legal name[6]. Birth certificates, hospital souvenirs, and Social Security card stubs are not acceptable as identity proof[6]. For citizenship, provide a U.S. birth certificate or passport; alternatives include a Consular Report of Birth or Certificate of Naturalization[6]. Documents without expiration dates must have been issued within two years for adults or four years for children[6].
- Complete Form SS-5
Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) with accurate information. Download the form from the SSA website or pick one up at a local Social Security office. Double-check all entries before submission to avoid delays.
- Attend an in-person interview
If you are age 12 or older and applying for an original SSN, the SSA requires an in-person interview[3]. This rule does not apply if you request a number as part of the immigration process (such as through Form I-765 or I-485)[3]. Locate your nearest Social Security office and schedule an appointment or visit during business hours.
- Submit your application
Bring your completed Form SS-5 and original documents to the Social Security office. An SSA representative will review your materials and conduct the interview if required. If applying through USCIS (via Form I-765 or I-485), the agency forwards your information to the SSA automatically[4].
- Wait for processing
You should receive your Social Security card within 7–10 business days after the SSA has all necessary information[4]. Mail-in applications may take 2–4 weeks[4]. If you were born in the U.S. and are requesting an original number, the SSA must verify your birth record, which can add up to 12 weeks[5]. For immigration-based applications, the card arrives within 7–10 business days after USCIS approves your work authorization or Permanent Residence[4].
- Verify your card and protect it
When your card arrives, check that your name and number are correct. Store the card in a secure location and avoid carrying it daily. Memorize your number for employment and tax purposes. Be aware that using another person's SSN without lawful authority is identity theft under 18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7), punishable by up to 15 years' imprisonment and fines[7]. Social Security fraud under 42 U.S.C. § 408 carries up to five years' imprisonment, with enhanced penalties of up to ten years for certain professionals[8].
Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees
Acquiring a Social Security number (SSN) involves several risks and limitations. Applicants must provide original documents to prove their age, identity, and citizenship or lawful immigration status. Acceptable documents include a U.S. driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. Failure to provide the correct documentation can lead to application denial[2][6].
An in-person interview is required for applicants aged 12 and older, adding complexity to the process[3]. Processing times can vary; typically, applicants receive their SSN card within 7–10 business days, but verification of birth records can extend this period by up to 12 weeks[4][5].
Risks of obtaining or using a fraudulent SSN are significant. For example, if someone uses another person's SSN without lawful authority, they could face penalties of up to 15 years in prison for identity theft[7]. Additionally, Social Security fraud is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment, with harsher penalties for certain professionals[8].
Before proceeding, verify eligibility for an SSN and ensure all documents meet SSA requirements. If an application needs to be canceled or returned, contact the Social Security Administration directly for guidance. Always check the status of your application and protect your SSN to prevent misuse.
Before you go
- What documents do you need to apply for an SSN?
You need at least two original documents or certified copies to prove age, identity, and citizenship or lawful immigration status[2]. For identity, provide a U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID, or passport showing your legal name[6]. For U.S. citizenship, submit a birth certificate or passport; alternatives include a Consular Report of Birth, Certificate of Citizenship, or Certificate of Naturalization[6]. Documents without expiration dates must have been issued within the past two years for adults or four years for children[6].
- Who is eligible to get a Social Security number?
All U.S. citizens can request a Social Security number[1]. Noncitizens may qualify if they work, attend school, or have a valid nonwork reason[1]. Lawfully present noncitizens without Department of Homeland Security employment authorization must provide a letter from the government agency requiring the SSN, explaining why they need the number and confirming they meet all requirements for the benefit or service except for the number[2].
- How long does it take to get an SSN after applying?
You typically receive your Social Security card within 7–10 business days after the SSA has all necessary information[4]. Mail-in applications may take 2–4 weeks[4]. If you were born in the United States and are requesting an original number, the SSA must verify your birth record, which can add up to 12 weeks to processing time[5]. For immigration-based applications using Form I-765 or I-485, expect your card within 7–10 business days after USCIS approval[4].
- What are the penalties for SSN fraud?
Identity theft under 18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7) carries a maximum term of 15 years' imprisonment, a fine, and criminal forfeiture of any personal property used or intended to be used to commit the offense[7]. Social Security fraud under 42 U.S.C. § 408 is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than five years, with enhanced penalties of up to ten years for certain professionals including claimant representatives and health care providers[8]. The Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act prohibits knowingly using another person's identification without lawful authority to commit any federal or state felony[7].
- Can international students get a Social Security number?
International students may qualify for a Social Security number if they work or attend school and meet eligibility requirements[1]. Noncitizens must demonstrate Department of Homeland Security employment authorization or provide a letter from a government agency explaining a valid nonwork reason for needing the number[2]. Students applying for work authorization through Form I-765 will receive their SSN card within 7–10 business days after USCIS approves their application[4].
- What to do if your SSN is stolen?
Contact the Social Security Administration immediately to report the theft and request guidance on protecting your account. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov and notify local law enforcement. Monitor your credit reports and consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus. Identity theft under federal law carries penalties of up to 15 years' imprisonment for offenders[7].
- How much does a Social Security number cost on the dark web?
Purchasing a Social Security number from any source other than the Social Security Administration is illegal and constitutes identity theft under federal law. Using another person's SSN without lawful authority violates the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act and 18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7), carrying penalties of up to 15 years' imprisonment, fines, and criminal forfeiture[7]. The SSA issues Social Security numbers at no cost to eligible U.S. citizens and noncitizens who meet specific requirements[1]. Any transaction involving stolen or fraudulent SSNs exposes both buyer and seller to prosecution and severe criminal penalties.