How to Get a Social Security Number for Your Child

You need to apply through the Social Security Administration, either at birth or afterward

A child's Social Security number comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA), a federal agency. You request one by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it with proof documents. Most parents do this at the hospital when the child is born — the hospital submits the form as part of the birth certificate process. If you did not do it then, or if you adopted a child, you can apply at any SSA office or by mail.

The SSA does not issue the number instantly. Processing takes roughly two to four weeks by mail, or sometimes faster if you apply in person at a local office. You will receive a Social Security card in the mail once the number is assigned.

Key Takeaways

You can request a Social Security number at the hospital when your child is born, or apply later using Form SS-5 at an SSA office or by mail.
You will need the child's birth certificate, your ID, and proof of the child's citizenship or immigration status.
Processing takes two to four weeks; the SSA mails the card to your address once the number is assigned.
If you adopted your child, you will need the adoption decree or court order in addition to the standard documents.
You do not need a Social Security number to add a child to your health insurance, but you will need one for tax purposes and to open a bank account in their name.

What documents you need to bring or submit

The SSA requires three categories of proof: the child's birth certificate, your identity, and proof of the child's citizenship or immigration status. The birth certificate must be an official copy — not a hospital-issued one — and it must show the child's name and date of birth.

For your identity, bring a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you do not have one of those, the SSA accepts other documents like a work ID, school ID, or utility bill with your name and address.

For citizenship or immigration status, a U.S. birth certificate is usually enough. If the child was born outside the U.S., you will need a passport, visa, or immigration document showing the child's status. Adopted children need the adoption decree or court order showing the name change and date of adoption.

Applying at birth versus applying later

At the hospital, you fill out Form SS-5 as part of the birth certificate paperwork. The hospital collects your information and the child's details, then sends the form to the SSA along with the birth certificate application. This is the fastest route because everything moves together. You will receive the Social Security card in the mail within a few weeks.

If you did not apply at birth, you can apply later at any age. Go to your local SSA office with the documents listed above, or mail the form and copies of your documents to the SSA. You can find your local office and download Form SS-5 at ssa.gov. Processing takes the same two to four weeks whether you apply at birth or years later.

How to apply by mail

Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or pick one up at your local SSA office. Fill in the child's information, your information, and the reason for the request (new card). Make copies of the birth certificate, your ID, and proof of citizenship — do not send originals.

Mail the completed form and copies to the address listed on the form. The SSA processes mail applications at a central location, so do not mail it to your local office. Include a return address so the SSA can send the card to you. Processing takes two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope.

Applying in person at an SSA office

Bring the original documents (birth certificate, your ID, and citizenship proof) to your local SSA office. You do not need an appointment for a Social Security card application — walk in during business hours. The office staff will review your documents, make copies, and submit the application on the spot.

Processing still takes two to four weeks after you submit in person. The SSA will mail the card to the address you provide. Some offices may tell you the card will arrive faster if you apply in person, but the actual processing time is the same — the difference is that you know immediately whether your documents are acceptable.

What happens if documents are missing or incorrect

If the SSA receives your application and finds a problem — a birth certificate that does not match the name you provided, a missing document, or an unclear copy — they will mail you a notice asking for more information. This delays the process by one to two weeks while you gather and return the missing item.

To avoid this, double-check that the child's name on the birth certificate matches exactly what you write on Form SS-5. Make sure copies are clear and legible. If you are unsure whether a document is acceptable, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 before you submit.

Getting a replacement card if the original is lost

If the card arrives and is later lost or damaged, you can request a replacement using the same process: Form SS-5, documents, and submission by mail or in person. The SSA will issue a new card with the same number. Processing takes two to four weeks again.

You do not need to report a lost card to the SSA immediately — there is no security risk from a lost Social Security card the way there is from a lost credit card. But do request a replacement if you need it for school enrollment, a job, or opening a bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security number for my child if I do not have a birth certificate yet?

No. The birth certificate is required. If the certificate has not been issued yet, wait until it arrives from the vital records office in the state where the child was born, then submit your application. If you are applying at the hospital, the hospital will handle this as part of the birth certificate process.

Do I need a Social Security number to add my child to my health insurance?

No. Health insurance companies do not require a Social Security number. You can add a newborn to your plan using the child's name and date of birth. You will need the number later for tax purposes and to open a bank account, but not for insurance.

What if my child was born outside the United States?

You will need a passport or visa showing the child's immigration status, in addition to the birth certificate from the country where the child was born. If the child is a U.S. citizen by birth (because one parent is a U.S. citizen), bring a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certificate of Citizenship. If the child is not yet a citizen, bring the visa or immigration document showing their current status.

How long does it take to get the card if I apply in person?

The card takes two to four weeks to arrive by mail, the same as if you applied by mail. Applying in person does not speed up the mailing process. The benefit of applying in person is that staff review your documents immediately and tell you if anything is missing, rather than finding out weeks later.

Can someone other than a parent apply for the child's Social Security number?

Yes. A guardian, grandparent, or other caregiver can apply if they have custody or guardianship documents. They will need to bring those documents along with proof of their own identity and the child's birth certificate and citizenship proof. The process is the same as for a parent.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.