How to Obtain a Copy of Your Child's Social Security Card

Obtaining a copy of your child's Social Security card can be a straightforward process, but it requires following specific steps. If you are a U.S. citizen and your child was born in the U.S. after 1986, your child should have automatically received a Social Security number at birth. However, if you need to get a replacement or a copy of the card, here's how to go about it.

Gathering Required Documents

The first step in obtaining a Social Security card for your child is to gather all the necessary documents. You will need to provide proof of identity for both you and your child. Acceptable documents include:

Child's birth certificate or adoption decree Parent's government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport

Completing the Application

To apply for a Social Security card, you will need to fill out Form SS-5, the Application for a Social Security Card. You can download this form from the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or request a paper form at your local SSA office.

Submitting the Application

You can submit your application either in person at your local SSA office or by mail. If you choose to mail in your application, make sure to send original documents. The SSA will return any originals if you do not request copies, but you should request certified copies if necessary.

After you submit your application, the SSA will process it. Processing times can vary, but typically, it takes about 10 to 14 days for the new Social Security card to be mailed to you.

Additional Information and Contacting the SSA

For more specific information or to find your local SSA office, visit the SSA website.

It's worth noting that if you are the U.S. citizen parent of a child who was born in the U.S. after 1986, your child should have already received a Social Security number. If you need to obtain a replacement card, follow the steps mentioned above.

However, if the child is under 18 and you are their guardian, you may contact the local Social Security office with official, not photocopied, copies of your son's birth certificate and any relevant documents.

For more detailed steps, you can visit the official Social Security website.

Additionally, it is recommended to make an appointment at your local Social Security office and bring more paperwork than necessary to ensure a smooth process.

Conclusion

The Social Security Administration is strict about providing access to sensitive information. Typically, they would not provide information or a card if they do not have the appropriate power of attorney or legal documents. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the proper protocol to obtain a copy of your child's Social Security card.