Please select the most relevant option below to request a US Social Security Number (SSN).
For Options 1, 4 and 6: Your Social Security Number application and original documents should be sent directly to the Federal Benefits Unit in London for processing. If you do not want your application to be processed by mail through the Federal Benefits Unit in London, you should defer your SSN application until you are in the United States. If you do not wish to have your application processed by mail through the Federal Benefits Unit in London London, you should defer your SSN application until you are in the US and you may submit your application in person at a local Social Security office.
To apply for a social security number for a child under the age of 12, the following steps are required.
Complete an application for a social security card,Formular SS-5-FS(PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) – all questions must be answered and legible.
Submit the following original documents - photocopies will not be accepted.
- Proof of the birth of the child
- Original U.S. birth certificate or original U.S. consular report of birth abroad
- If the child was born in the United States, you must also provide evidence that you or the child have lived outside of the United States for an extended period of time to explain why a Social Security number was not issued in the past. Proof of foreign residency may include medical, school, and employment records.
- If the child was born in the United States, form SSA-L706 (Click HERE to download a PDF of Form SSA-L706-(PDF / 3 pages / 292kb) must also be completed, signed and submitted together with the application and other documents. This allows the Social Security Administration to verify the birth certificate with the custodian of the record.
- If the child was born in the UK we can also accept a UK birth certificate.
- Proof of the child's US citizenship
- original US birth certificate,
OR - Original U.S. consular report of birth abroad
- original US birth certificate,
- Proof of the child's identity
- Original US passport, must be current and signed
- Original UK passport, must be current and signed
- A passport or ID card issued by another countrycanplease be acceptableContact the Federal Benefits Unitfor advice
- Proof of identity of the parent signing the application
- Original US passport, must be current and signedOR
- Original UK passport, must be current and signed
- A passport or ID card issued by another countrycanplease be acceptableContact the Federal Benefits Unitfor advice
The completed forms and original documents are to be sent to the office as follows:
US Embassy
federal power unit
Feld 0005
33 Nine Elms Lane
London SW11 7US
We will copy and return the original documents within 3-4 days. We do not advise sending important personal documents from outside the UK. If you choose to send your application by post, you should use a service that allows you to track your package. Within the UK we recommend Special Delivery Mail; Outside the UK we recommend using a courier. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope or courier parcel. The Federal Benefits Unit will return documents by mail if you do not provide a stamped envelope or courier package. The processing time for SSN applications is approximately 8-10 weeks.
If you live in Africa, email the Federal Benefits Unit for instructions on how to proceed with your SSN application. In order for us to be able to answer your request promptly, please state your country of residence in the first line of your e-mail, e.g. B. "SSN request Nigeria".
Those over the age of 12 must apply in person for a short interview. Contact the Federal Benefits Unitvia our contact formto arrange an appointment. Please let us know which country you were born in, in the United States or abroad. We recommend that you include "SSN Appointment Required" in the subject line and let our office know your preferred appointment time at least three days in advance. We will let you know if your request is granted. If you live in the UK, your interview will take place at the Federal Benefits Unit in London or at a designated US military agency. If you live in Africa, we will assist you in arranging your interview appointment.
A.complete oneApplication for a Social Security Card, Form SS-5-FS(PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) . All questions must be answered and legible.
B.At the time of your interviewYou must provide the following original documents– We do not accept photocopies. Bringing your original documents AND photocopies with you will speed up your visit to the embassy. We check and keep the photocopies and return your original documents to you. If you do not have all the required documentation with you at your interview, you may have to return for a second interview.
1. Proof of Birth
a.Original U.S. Birth Certificate or (b) or (c) below
I. If you or the child were born in the United States, you must submit documentary evidence that you or the child resided outside of the United States. Proof of foreign residency is required to explain why no social security number has been issued in the past.The evidence should cover a significant portion of the total time you or the child was outside the United States.(Click HERE for a list of proposed documentation; other documents may be submitted for consideration.)
ii. If you or the child were born in the United States, form SSA-L706 (Download a PDF of Form SSA-L706(PDF / 3 pages / 80Kb) must also be completed, signed and submitted together with the application and other documents. This allows the Social Security Administration to verify the birth certificate with the custodian of the record.
b.Original U.S. consular report of birth abroad, or
c.Different original birth certificate than above.
2. Proof of US citizenship
a.Original US birth certificate, or
b.Original U.S. consular report of birth abroad, or
c.Original US certificate of naturalization or citizenship or
d.Original US passport.
3. Proof of Identity
a.Original US passport, must be current and signed, or
b.Original foreign passport, must be current and signed.
ATTENTION: If the maiden name and the name on the ID card are different, proof of the name change must also be submitted.
4. Proof of identity of the parent signing the application
If applicable - a parent can sign the form for a child up to the age of 18; a child over the age of 12 can sign the form.
a.Original US passport, must be current and signed, or
b.Original foreign passport, must be current and signed.
If you have any questions, see how to do itContact the Federal Benefits Unit London.
If you have obtained a US visa that allows you to work in the United States, you must apply for a Social Security Card upon arrival in the United States of America.
You can submit the application to the nearest social security office.
You can find the address of your nearest social security office athttps://socialsecurity.govUse ofSearch for social security offices.
You must complete an application for a social security card,Formular SS-5-FS(PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) and deliver theOriginaldocuments listed belowOption 2, Above.
You should apply for a replacement card even if you don't remember your social security number.
complete oneApplying for a social security card,Formular SS-5-FS(PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) – all questions must be answered and legible.
Valid from August 1, 2014The Social Security Administration stopped providing printouts or checks of the Social Security number. The Federal Benefits Unit cannot provide you with a printout or proof of a Social Security Number. If you need proof of your (or your child's) Social Security number, you should apply for a replacement card.
Presentation of an original ID card –a photocopy is not acceptable.
The completed forms and original documents are to be sent to the office as follows:
US Embassy
federal power unit
Feld 0005
33 Nine Elms Lane
London SW11 7US
We will copy and return the original documents within 3-4 days. We do not advise sending important personal documents from outside the UK. If you choose to send your application by post, you should use a service that allows you to track your package. Within the UK we recommend Special Delivery Mail; Outside the UK we recommend using a courier. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope or courier parcel. The Federal Benefits Unit will return documents by mail if you do not provide a stamped envelope or courier package. The processing time for SSN applications is approximately 8-10 weeks.
If you live in Africa, email the Federal Benefits Unit for instructions on how to proceed with your SSN application. In order for us to be able to answer your request promptly, please state your country of residence in the first line of your e-mail, e.g. B. "SSN request Nigeria".
Suitable identification documents are:
- Original US passport, must be current and signed;
- Original Permanent Resident Alien Card, must be current;
- Original US driver's license, must be current;
- An original UK passport or driving license is accepted but must be accompanied by proof of US citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or US birth certificate
- A passport or ID card issued by another country may be acceptable if your US citizenship is already properly listed on your Social Security card. Please contact the Federal Benefits Unit for guidance.
If the replacement card is for a child, we require proof of identity for both the child and the parent signing the form.
SSN required for US PASSPORT application: If you don't remember your social security number (or your child's) and need it for a US passport application, you should apply for a replacement SSN card using the instructions above. Please allow at least one month for the replacement card application to be processed and the card shipped from the US. Note: This process cannot be accelerated.
If the name on your ID differs from the name on your most recent social security number, see option #6 below,for instructions on changing the name on your record.
If you are not a US citizen or legal permanent resident,see point 5. below for instructions.
Valid from August 1, 2014The Social Security Administration stopped providing printouts or checks of the Social Security number. The Federal Benefits Unit cannot provide you with a printout or proof of a Social Security Number.
If you are not a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident ("green card" holder) and need to verify your Social Security number information, you must request a printout of your Social Security number record (known as a Numident) directly from the Social Security Administration. These requests can take up to 60 daysor moreto be processed and are processed on a first-in-come basis, regardless of the shipping method used.
This service is chargeable; current fee information can be foundon the Social Insurance Agency website.
Submit a written request to review the data stored in yournuident, with the following information: your name, date of birth, your parents' names, the citizenship or legal status you had when your Social Security number was assigned, and the date your citizenship or legal status changed. Send your request to:
Social Security Administration
OEIO DBS (FOIA working group)
PO Box 33022
Baltimore MD 21290-3022
If you wish to use Express Mail/Courier, send your request to:
Social Security Administration
OEIO DBS (FOIA working group)
6100 Wabash Avenue
Baltimore MD21215
To change your name on your social security records, the following steps are required;
- complete oneApplying for a social security card,Formular SS-5-FS(PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) – all questions must be answered and legible.
- Provide the following original documents –Photocopies will not be accepted:
- Proof of name change
- Original Marriage or Divorce Certificate (If the marriage or divorce certificate is more than 2 years old or does not contain biographical information such as date of birth or age, you must also provide proof of identity in your OLD name. If you do not have ID in your old name, you must write an explanation as to why you do not have such proof of identity and submit proof of identity in your NEW name).
OR - Other documents such as B. a court order, a deed survey or a legally required name change declaration
- Original Marriage or Divorce Certificate (If the marriage or divorce certificate is more than 2 years old or does not contain biographical information such as date of birth or age, you must also provide proof of identity in your OLD name. If you do not have ID in your old name, you must write an explanation as to why you do not have such proof of identity and submit proof of identity in your NEW name).
- Proof of identity in old name, one of the following:
- Original current or expired US or UK passport, must be signed
- Original driver's license
- Original current or expired US military ID card
- A passport or ID card issued by another country may be acceptedContact the Federal Benefits Unitfor advice
- Proof of identity in new name, one of the following:
- Original current US or UK passport, must be signed
- Original driver's license
- Original current US military ID card
- A passport or ID card issued by another country may be acceptedContact the Federal Benefits Unitfor advice
- Proof of name change
The completed forms and original documents are to be sent to the office as follows:
US Embassy
federal power unit
Feld 0005
33 Nine Elms Lane
London SW11 7US
We will copy and return the original documents within 3-4 days. We do not advise sending important personal documents from outside the UK. If you choose to send your application by post, you should use a service that allows you to track your package. Within the UK we recommend Special Delivery Mail; Outside the UK we recommend using a courier. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope or courier parcel. The Federal Benefits Unit will return documents by mail if you do not provide a stamped envelope or courier package. The processing time for SSN applications is approximately 8-10 weeks.
If you live in Africa, email the Federal Benefits Unit for instructions on how to proceed with your SSN application. In order for us to be able to answer your request promptly, please state your country of residence in the first line of your e-mail, e.g. B. "SSN request Nigeria".
SSN printouts and verifications
Effective August 1, 2014, the Social Security Administration will stop providing Social Security Number (SSN) printouts or checks.
The social security card(link opens in a new window) is the only legal proof of a social security number.
Postal addresses for SSN cards
When possible, we recommend that SSN cards be sent to US addresses for individuals submitting applications from countries where postal delivery services are unreliable.
FAQs
What's your Social Security number SSN? ›
A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number that the U.S. government issues to all U.S. citizens and eligible U.S. residents who apply for one. The government uses this number to keep track of your lifetime earnings and the number of years worked.
What does the first 3 digits of Social Security number mean? ›The first three (3) digits of a person's social security number are determined by the ZIP Code of the mailing address shown on the application for a social security number. Prior to 1973, social security numbers were assigned by our field offices.
What do the middle 2 digits of SSN mean? ›The group numbers are the two middle numbers of a social security number. These numbers do not represent the geographical region, but they do represent the order in which a number was issued for a particular region.
What does SSN stand for? ›The term Social Security number (SSN) refers to a numerical identifier assigned to U.S. citizens and other residents to track income and determine benefits. The SSN was created in 1936 as part of The New Deal to provide for retirement and disability benefits.
What do the first 5 digits of SSN mean? ›Number Has Three Parts
The first set of three digits is called the Area Number. The second set of two digits is called the Group Number. The final set of four digits is the Serial Number.
The Serial Number, itself, doesn't say anything about your location or age that the Group Number and Area Number don't already say, although since they are assigned consecutively, they could potentially reveal your relative age within a Group and an Area.
How important is the last 4 digits of SSN? ›Guard the Final Four.
Although most widely used and shared, the last four digits are in fact the most important to protect. These are truly random and unique; the first five numbers represent when and where your Social Security card was issued. Scammers can get those numbers by knowing your birth date and hometown.
Out of 119 people, there is a 50% chance that two of them will have the same last 4 digits in their SSN. Out of 180 people, there is a 80% chance that two of them will have the same last 4 digits in their SSN. Out of 300 people, then there is more than 99% probability that two of them will have the same number.
What does a SSN starting with 9 mean? ›The Social Security Administration does not issue SSNs beginning with the number 9. Numbers beginning with a “9” may be a Social Security Administration issued Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a tax processing number issued by the IRS that has 9 digits beginning with the number 9.
Does your SSN tell where you live? ›The Serial Number
As you can see, your social security number does not expressly say anything about you. Even the area number, which was tied to a location for 76 years, cannot be used to accurately pinpoint a residence.
Can two people have the same social security number? ›
Many people have the same name, but each person has his or her own SSN.
Why would a person have 2 Social Security numbers? ›But, because railroad workers are often laid off for long periods of time, they would take jobs in other non-railroad industries, so they had to have a "regular" social security number to track and later collect benefits, This practice of issuing two SSNs ended in 1963.
Is SSN only for citizens? ›Does a noncitizen need a Social Security number (SSN)? Unless you are a noncitizen who wants to work in the United States, you probably don't need an SSN. Generally, only noncitizens authorized to work in the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can get an SSN.
Why do Americans have SSN? ›The Social Security number ( SSN ) was created in 1936 for the sole purpose of tracking the earnings histories of U.S. workers, for use in determining Social Security benefit entitlement and computing benefit levels. Since then, use of the SSN has expanded substantially.
What is SSN example? ›The Social Security number is a nine-digit number in the format "AAA-GG-SSSS".
Is 123456789 valid SSN? ›Consecutive digits in numerical order (123456789) The first three digits are outside of the range specified by the SSA. This range is determined and updated by the SSA.
Who has a SSN of 1? ›This particular record, (055-09-0001) belonged to John D. Sweeney, Jr., age 23, of New Rochelle, New York.
What number will never start a SSN? ›SSA will not issue SSNs beginning with the number “9”. SSA will not issue SSNs beginning with the number “666” in positions 1 – 3. SSA will not issue SSNs beginning with the number “000” in positions 1 – 3. SSA will not issue SSNs with the number “00” in positions 4 – 5.
Does your SSN expire? ›Does an SSN expire? No. Once an SSN has been assigned it is an individual's unique number for the rest of his or her life in the United States.
Can you change your SSN? ›To request a different Social Security number, contact your local Social Security office for an in-person appointment.
Is your SSN secret? ›
The Social Security Administration protects your Social Security number and keeps your records confidential. We don't give your number to anyone, except when authorized by law. You should be careful about sharing your number, even when you're asked for it.
What can thieves do with last 4 digits of SSN? ›As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.
Can I share last 5 digits of SSN? ›In most cases, the last 4-5 digits of your social security number can be used in a legitimate way to verify a candidate. If the recruiter hasn't passed all the above checks or is showing any signs of being a scam, we still would recommend waiting to provide that information until you have completed your interview.
What is the biggest danger when you reveal information such as your social security number? ›Identity theft begins when someone takes your personally identifiable information such as your name, Social Security Number, date of birth, your mother's maiden name, and your address to use it, without your knowledge or permission, for their personal financial gain.
Does SSN get reused after death? ›A: No. We do not reassign a Social Security number (SSN) after the number holder's death.
Can 2 people have the same last 4 of their social? ›Only the last four digits of your Social Security number are truly random and unique. The first five numbers represent when and where your Social Security card was issued.
How many times can you request a SSN? ›You may receive no more than three replacement social security number cards in a year and ten replacement social security number cards per lifetime. We may allow for reasonable exceptions to these limits on a case-by-case basis in compelling circumstances.
What does a SSN starting with 7 mean? ›Prior to the changes the number “8” and “9” were not used for the first digit, and “7” was reserved for specific groups like railroad employees. Nor were any Social Security Numbers issued with “000” or “666” for the first three digits.
What does 5.9 mean with Social Security? ›The new year will usher in bigger Social Security checks for many beneficiaries starting this month. That's as a record 5.9% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, takes effect. It marks the biggest annual increase in about 40 years. In 2021, benefits went up by just 1.3%.
What state was my SSN issued? ›The first three digits (the area number) of a SSN are determined by the state where the number was issued. You can get the state-assigned list for each 3-digit origination code by visiting http://www.socialsecurity.gov/employer/stateweb.htm.
How much is my Social Security number worth? ›
The company found that buyers are currently willing to pay just $1 for a Social Security number, which is the same amount they'll pay for user and password information to Brazzers, a pornographic website.
How can I find out if someone is using my identity? ›- Track what bills you owe and when they're due. If you stop getting a bill, that could be a sign that someone changed your billing address.
- Review your bills. ...
- Check your bank account statement. ...
- Get and review your credit reports.
While there are many reasons people may do this, it is not a good idea. Using someone else's SSN is a federal crime and could result in up to 15 years in jail. It could prevent you from obtaining legal status or cause you to be deported.
Does your SSN have to match your name? ›No. You can elect "married filing jointly" filing status without changing your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Make sure that the name shown on your social security card matches the name you use on your tax return.
What does the A mean after my Social Security number? ›15032: SSN Ends With a Letter
The letters at the end of a SSN indicate the claim number for a SSI or Social Security beneficiary.
7. Sequential Control Number. On the rear of a legitimate card there is a sequential control number. The control number is a combination of alpha and numeric that bears no relation to the actual social security number on the card.
How does everyone have a different Social Security number? ›Today, assigned randomly and never recycled, a social security number is as unique an identifier as your fingerprints. (Although, in the past, duplicates are known to have been issued accidentally.)
Who is allowed to require a SSN? ›Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law.
Can someone not have a SSN? ›Does everyone have a social security number assigned to them in the United States? No. Parents will usually apply for a social security number when a child is born. If the application is not submitted, a person will not have one.
What do immigrants have instead of SSN? ›The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax-processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to ensure that people—including undocumented immigrants—pay taxes even if they do not have a Social Security number (SSN) and regardless of their immigration status.
Can you use your SSN to buy stuff? ›
In addition to Social Security, the SSN is now also used for a wide range of purposes. These include obtaining credit, opening a bank account, obtaining government benefits or private insurance, and buying a home or a car, among many other pursuits.
When did SSN become mandatory? ›In 1943, Executive Order (EO) 9397 required Federal agencies to use the SSN in any new system of records to identify persons.
Why do jobs require SSN? ›Why do employers need my social security number? If an employer decides to extend you an offer, they will eventually need your social security number to verify your identity and work authorization and perhaps to complete a background check.
What does a real SSN look like? ›The second set is the two-digit group number. The third set is the four-digit serial number. Often these sets of digits are shown separated by hyphens, so an SSN looks like this: 999-99-9999.
Can I check my SSN online? ›Your Social Security Statement (Statement) is available to view online by opening a my Social Security account. It is useful for people of all ages who want to learn about their future Social Security benefits and current earnings history.
Is your SSN your birth number? ›For the average American, the Social Security Number holds special significance. It follows you from birth to death and can act as a key to a variety of sensitive information – bank accounts, tax returns, driver's license information, residences, etc.
How can I check my details with my SSN? ›at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go to: www.identitytheft.gov/ To order a copy of your Social Security Administration earnings and benefits statement, or to check whether someone has used your Social Security number to get a job or to avoid paying taxes, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/statement/.
Can I get SSN number online? ›You can start your Social Security number (SSN) card application online. Once you've submitted your request, visit your local SSA office for additional guidance for completing your application.
Can two people have the same Social Security number? ›Many people have the same name, but each person has his or her own SSN.
Does SSN expire? ›Does an SSN expire? No. Once an SSN has been assigned it is an individual's unique number for the rest of his or her life in the United States.
Can I get my SSN for free? ›
But, if you do need a replacement, you can complete your application online or in-person. The easiest way to request a replacement SSN card is online with a free, personal my Social Security account. You can go to www.ssa.gov/ssnumber and answer a few questions to find out the best way to apply.
How can I get my SSN without my card? ›You can prove your SSN with one of the following documents that shows your asserted legal name. W-2 Form with full SSN (including W-2C, W-2G, etc.) SSA-1099 Form with full SSN (including SSA-1099-SM, SSA-1099-R-OP1, etc.) Non-SSA 1099 Form with full SSN (including 1099-DIV, 1099-MISC, etc.)