How Do I Replace My Child's Lost Social Security Card?

While initially used for taxpayer identification, Social Security cards now are accepted as identification when applying for jobs. They are issued to all U.S. citizens, permanent resident aliens and approved temporary resident aliens working in the US. The best time to get a Social Security card for your child is right before you leave the hospital with your newborn. When you register your child's birth for a birth certificate, the state shares the information with the federal government. A lost Social Security card can be replaced free of charge.

Things You'll Need

  • Social Security number
  • Form OMB No. 0960-0066

Instructions

  1. Replacing a Lost Social Security Card

    • 1

      Keep your child's card with other important documents, but note his number and keep it in a separate secure place. You need your child's Social Security number to apply for a replacement card.

    • 2

      Do not report a lost card. The Social Security Administration does not take reports of them, but will issue a free replacement card. The limit is 10 replacement cards per lifetime with no more than three in a given year.

    • 3

      Provide the SSA with proof of your child's identity when requesting a replacement card. Documents that are accepted are a valid state-issued driver's license or a U.S. passport. If she does not have either of those, medical records or a school identification card may be accepted. Birth certificates are not accepted.

    • 4

      Download the form from the Social Security Administration website and print it out on white paper. Fill in the information, being sure to list your child's Social Security number on line 2, check the "yes" box on line 11, and enter his name as it appeared on the original card in line 12. Children younger than 18 may sign the application or have their parent or guardian sign for them; children older than 18 must sign if they are physically able.

    • 5

      Mail the completed application to your local Social Security office. To find the nearest office, call 1-800-772-1213. However, if your child is a resident of Las Vegas; Orlando, Florida; Phoenix; Sacramento; or Minneapolis/St. Paul, you must present the application in person at a local SSA office.

    • 6

      Allow up to two weeks from the time the paperwork for your child's replacement card was submitted for the new card to arrive. If more than two weeks have passed, call 1-800-772-1213; representatives are available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Eastern time.

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