How to Get a Social Security Number for Your Child

Social security numbers are a necessity to claim your child as a dependent for tax purposes. A social security number may be necessary if you open a bank account, obtain medical insurance, buy savings bonds or apply for government services for your child. Obtaining a social security number is easiest when your child is born, but a number may also be obtained at a later time. There is no cost to obtain a social security number.

Instructions

  1. Applying at Birth

    • 1

      Obtain a social security number at the birth of your child. This is voluntary and hassle-free. Apply at the same time you apply for your baby's birth certificate.

    • 2

      When applying for a birth certificate, answer "yes" when you are asked if you also want to apply for a social security number for your baby.

    • 3

      Provide the social security numbers of both parents.

    • 4

      When the state issues the birth certificate, the information is also shared with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Your child's social security number will be mailed to you.

    Waiting Until Later

    • 5

      Download and print the online application from the SSA Web site or call the SSA toll-free at 1-(800)-772-1213. You may also obtain an application by going to your local Social Security office.

    • 6

      Fill out the application, including the social security numbers of both parents. You will need to include original documents to prove the age and identity of your child.

    • 7

      Prove the age of your child by including the birth certificate. In some situations the SSA may accept a U.S. passport, a record of birth created at the time of birth (not a souvenir birth certificate) from a U.S. hospital, a final adoption decree or religious record obtained before age five that shows age and date of birth.

    • 8

      Prove your child's identity by including a driver's license, a state-issued identity card or a U.S. passport. In some situations, the SSA may also accept a military ID card; a school ID card; school records maintained by the school; medical records from a clinic, doctor or hospital; or a final adoption decree.

    • 9

      If your child is 11 or younger, mail the completed application and documents or take them to a local Social Security office. Your documents will be mailed back to you. It may take up to 12 weeks to verify birth information and mail you a social security number for your child.

    • 10

      You must apply in person if your child is age 12 or older and you are applying for the first time. Your child will need to be present at the Social Security office for an interview.

    • 11

      If your area is serviced by one of seven Social Security Card Centers, you may also need to apply in person, regardless of age. These centers are located in Brooklyn, N.Y.; Queens, N.Y.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix, Ariz.; or Sacramento County, Calif.

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