The Social Security Number is a 9-digit number issued by the US government for all citizens and certain residents. The government uses this number to keep track of your lifetime earnings and the number of years for which you have worked. The SSN is critical for you, being a unique identifier to U.S. citizens and some residents with the primary purpose of collecting Social Security benefits. However, in addition to Social Security benefits, the SSN is now required for different purposes like obtaining credit, opening a bank account, obtaining government benefits, private insurance or even buying a new automobile.
Therefore, the Social Security card is a document that you need to keep amongst your important papers. In some cases, it may be crucial to have some evidence about your Social Security Number and the Social Security card will serve that purpose.
It is a good idea to understand how to apply for a Social Security card and the time it takes to get a Social Security card.
Who Is Eligible To Get A Social Security Card?
You can use “my Social Security account” to apply for a replacement Social Security card if you satisfy the following conditions:
- If you are a U.S. citizen aged 18 or older with a mailing address located in the U.S.
- If you possess a driver’s license or State-issued identification card from any of the many participating states or the District of Columbia.
How To Apply For A Social Security Card?
You can apply for a Social Security card either online mode or in person.
Applying online
Applying online for a Social Security card is the easiest way to get a Social Security card. To be eligible for applying online, you will have to verify your U.S. citizenship with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You will also have to create a Social Security account and you must have a valid State-issued driver’s license or identification card to do that. Once the SSA verifies your information, you can continue with the application.
Applying in person
If you cannot apply online, you can still apply for a Social Security card in person. For this, you simply need to print out the application and fill it out completely. Then, you can mail the form and other required documents to your local SSA office. You can also drop it off at the SSA office in person. For finding your local SSA office, you will have to do a simple online search or visit www.ssa.gov.
Documents needed with your online application
For your application for a replacement Social Security card, you must file the following documents with your application form:
- Proof of your age
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of your identity
Some common forms of identification include:
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- State ID
However, if you do not have any of these documents, the SSA will also accept the following documents-
a) Work ID
b) School ID
c) U.S. military ID
d) Health Insurance Card (not Medicare).
Whatever documents you provide with your application for a Social Security card, they must either be the originals or copies that are certified by the issuing office. You cannot provide photocopies, notarized paperwork, or expired documents along with your application.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Social Security Card?
The Social Security Administration will mail your Social Security card as soon as it gets all the necessary information. Though there is no standardized timeline to receive the card, you can expect to receive it within 7-10 business days after the SSA gets all the necessary information to process it. However, the SSA is experiencing short delays in processing mail-in Social Security card applications. Therefore, if you have applied for a mail-in Social Security card, it may take the SSA 2-4 weeks to process it and return the evidence.
On the other hand, if you are applying for a new or replacement Social Security card in Form I-765 and/or Form I-485, the SSA will issue your card within 7-10 business days from the date on which your work authorization or Permanent Residence application is approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Contact Liner Legal For More Information Regarding Your Social Security Card
Your Social Security Number and card are important for you for collecting Social Security benefits. Even if you are not entitled to benefits, you may need them for availing several services and amenities. Therefore, you must have all the necessary information at your disposal when applying for a new or replacement Social Security card. At Liner Legal, we have a team of experienced Social Security Disability (SSD) attorneys who understand the Social Security card application process. If you need any information regarding this, contact Liner Legal today.
