If you are living in the United States then you must already know what is a Social Security Card and if you don’t know then no worries, we got you covered. People who are a citizen of the United States or who are a permanent resident in the US receive a nine-digit Social Security number. This nine digit social security number is written on a Social Security Card along with other important information.
The Social Security Card comes in handy when it comes to applying for a job, filing taxes, or accessing government services, etc. People have a lot of queries when it comes to Social Security Card such as what is it, why do i need one, how to apply for it, etc. Read this guide to understand the importance of the Social Security card.
We have also shared Social Security Card templates in this page for free download. You may use these templates for learning and education purposes.
Understanding Social Security Card
A Social Security Card is an official document that is issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) to people who are a citizen of the United States or who are a permanent resident in the US or to eligible nonimmigrant workers.. This card contains the unique nine-digit Social Security Number (SSN). If you are a citizen of this country then you are entitled to have a Social Security Card
Social Security Card is a physical card issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that contains a nine-digit Social Security Number (SSN).
Who is Eligible for Social Security Card?
Following are the people who can get a Social Security Number (SSN):
- U.S. citizens
- permanent residents
- eligible nonimmigrant workers
A Social Security Number (SSN) is used to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes.
Can a Non-Citizen get a Social Security Number (SSN)?
The answer is Yes, but there is a limitation to it. Generally, only noncitizens authorized to work in the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can get an SSN.
SSN is required to work, collect Social Security benefits, and receive certain government services. Employers uses SSN to report your wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits.
It is important to note that if you are a Noncitizen and you don’t have a SSN, still you can get ceratin benefits and services such as driver’s license, register for school, get private health insurance, or apply for school lunch programs or subsidized housing, etc.
Download Social Security Card Template
How to Apply for a Social Security Card?
Firstly, there is no cost to apply for a Social Security Card. It’s completely FREE.
For Non-Citizens:
Method 1:
You can even apply for SSN before come to the USA, you can apply when filing an application for an immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State.
If you have applied for a SSN with your immigrant visa application then in most cases you will receive your SSN card by mail to the address that you have provide on your immigrant visa application.
Visit www.ssa.gov/ssnvisa/ for more information.
Method 2:
You can apply for SSN If lawfully present in the United States and applying for work authorization or permanent resident status from DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
There is an option to apply for SSN through USCIS application Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) or via Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
For more information, see www.ssa.gov/ssnvisa/ebe.html.
I have Lost my Social Security Card, What to Do?
If your social security card is lost or stolen then you can get a replacement. Here are the steps to place a request for replacement:
Steps to Replace:
- You need to Fill out Form SS-5.
- You need to prove your identity by providing original documentation (and immigration status, if needed).
- You can submit the document to a Social Security office either by mail or in person.
The process of replacing a card may vary slightly in many states. In some states, you even have an option to apply for a replacement card via your my Social Security account, if you are eligible.
Final Thoughts
If you are living or working in the United States then Social Security card is one of the most important documents for you. The Social Security card comes in handy when it comes to apply for a job, filing taxes, or accessing government services, etc.
Make sure to keep your Social Security Card safe and secure because it’s one of the most important documents.