Your Social Security number is a very sensitive piece of information. You don’t want it to end up in the wrong hands. That’s why losing your Social Security card can be a numbing situation.
If a criminal gets your Social Security number and name, they can use these two pieces of information to cause you financial anguish. One of the ways to prevent significant damage when you lose your card is by getting a replacement card.
While replacing your Social Security card is free from the federal government, it can be a daunting process if you don’t understand what’s expected of you. You need to understand the process, the rules, and the documents required.
That said, here are three basic things you should know before you go for your replacement Social Security card.
1. How To Apply for a Replacement Card
You’ll have an easy time replacing your Social Security card if you get the process right and produce the originals or certified copies of necessary documents. Here’s the procedure:
- Fill out the Social Security card application Form SS-5
- Provide proof of identity documents
- If you’re a non-U.S. citizen, provide proof that you have an official, work-authorized status
2. The Documents Required for Replacement Card
To be given a replacement card, you have to prove your age, identity, as well as U.S citizenship or immigration status. It’s worth noting, however, that you don’t need to prove your citizenship and age if the Social Security Administration has the information in their records.
If you’re a U.S Citizen, you can show your birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or citizenship certificate, to prove your citizenship. You’ll also have to show either your US driver’s license or a state-issued non-driver identity card. What if you can’t produce any of the documents?
In that case, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will require that you produce at least one of the following documents:
- Employee ID card
- S. military ID card
- School ID card
- Adoption Decree
- Health insurance card
If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you’ll have to produce your valid U.S. immigration documents, which are normally issued by the Department of Homeland Security. The documents include:
- Work permit card
- Form I-551 – This encompasses machine-readable immigrant visa with your valid foreign passport.
- Form I-94 with your valid foreign passport
3. How Many Times Can You Get a Replacement Card?
You’re allowed to replace your Social Security card up to 3 times a year and up to 10 times in your lifetime. However, these limitations won’t apply if you’re looking to update your card due to a name change or a change in your non-citizenship status.
Moreover, the limitation rules can be bent in your favour, if you have a solid proof that you need a replacement card to avert a serious problem in your life.
Conclusion
People normally do everything they can to ensure the safety of their vital documents. However, they sometimes get lost or stolen. If you lose your Social Security card, you can have it replaced by following the procedure outlined above and having the all the necessary documents to prove your identity.
