Social Security Number

The need for a United States’ social security number cannot be overemphasized. Almost everything you need requires your social security number. Before you can secure a job, your social security number is required; you may need to present your social security number upon collection of social security benefits as well as receiving other government services. Before transacting businesses with banks and credit companies among others, you will need to give your social security number. Even non-citizens need temporary social security numbers prior to allowing them reside in the U.S. Sure, you will have questions regarding the U.S. social security numbers such as how to get a number, how much it costs, how to go about stolen or lost social security cards, etc. You will need to apply for a social security number by completing a form called Form SS-5 to begin your application for a social security number.

This process involves presenting original document or copies of the following: age, identity and the U.S. citizenship or immigration status. Thereafter, you will have to either mail or take the completed Form SS-5 and relevant documents to your local social security office. Note that the U.S. citizenship or immigration status will demand for documents that include birth certificate, passport, and Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. However, non U.S. citizens will only present their current. immigration documents. While a valid birth certificate is needed to support your age, some certain documents that show your name, recent passport photographs and identifying information could only certify your identity. Other documents needed by the Social Security are driver’s license, state-issued non-driver ID card or U.S. passport as proof of identity.

In the absence of the above documents, the Social Security will ask specifically for the originals, the issuing agency certified copies of the following: school and employee ID card, marriage certificate, health insurance card, life insurance policy and U.S. military ID card. Note that photocopies of the above documents will not be accepted. There are no costs charged for obtaining a social security number or card. The Social Security issues 3 card types. The first a given to U.S. citizens, which does not place any restriction on their work. The second card is issued to individuals legally allowed into the U.S. on a temporary basis. Holders of this card are allowed to work with the Department of Homeland Services authorization but certain visitors from other countries who are not allowed to work.