How to Get a SSN for a Newborn

It is important to have a Social Security card in order to apply for employment or Social Security benefits, or to receive most other government services. In general, most U.S. hospitals will provide the mother of a newborn with an information packet that includes application forms for a birth certificate, Social Security number, and Social Security card for the child. The State agency that issues birth certificates will pass along your baby's information to the Social Security Administration. A number and card will be issued and mailed to the mother. If a mother decides to wait until later she will need to apply for her child's number and card at the local Social Security Administration building.

Things You'll Need

  • Birth certificate
  • Hospital or medical records
  • Social Security numbers of parents

Instructions

    • 1

      Print off a Social Security card application online from the Social Security Administration's website (see Resources), or pick one up from your local office.

    • 2

      Read the directions carefully and fill out the application completely in blue or black ink. Answer the questions as they apply to your baby not you. You will be required to provide the mother's and the father's Social Security numbers.

    • 3

      Provide your child's original birth certificate and proof of identity. A certified copy is acceptable if it is certified by the original issuing agency. Notarized or photocopied documents will not be accepted as proof. Medical records can be used to prove your child's identity, as newborns and very young children do not have typical forms of identification.

    • 4

      Submit the application form along with the required documents in person or by mail to your local Social Security office (see Resources). All documents submitted with the application will be returned to you.

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