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One of the most important identification numbers for US citizens and residents is the social security number. The US government uses this nine-digit number to calculate years of service, lifetime earnings, government grants,Social Security death benefit, etc. This number is a legal requirement for employment and an integral part of the tax and credit process.
Jump to these sections:
- Why a Social Security Number for Your Child?
- Step 1: Complete a birth registration form
- Step 2: Visit the Social Security Office
- Step 3 - Wait for your child's card
- Step 4: Keep your child's card safe
- And the adopted children?
- How can I replace your child's social security card?
When you are having a baby, one of the first steps is to get the necessary legal documents. This includes applying for a social security number for your child. This is something you need to add your baby to health insurance, get tax credits, and open a bank account for her.
In other words, how to make sure the country recognizes your baby. As with most things related to government paperwork, this is not always an easy process. Keep reading to learn the steps to get a social security number for your newborn baby.
Why a Social Security Number for Your Child?
With recent data issues, many people may be wondering why you would need a social security number for your child. It's not a legal requirement, but many parents request this number before leaving the hospital. As mentioned, this is an important legal number to have on hand.
The most common reason to request this number for your child is for tax purposes. If you want to claim your child for federal income tax purposes, you must provide your child's social security number. You will be treated the same as any other dependent person.
However, this is not the only reason to secure this number. Other common reasons are:
- Health insurance for your child
- Bank or savings account for your child
- Savings bonds for your child
- Government Benefits or Services
- Beneficial ends if youStart planning for the end of life
As you can see, there are many reasons your child might start this process. Applying for a social security number for a newborn or even an adopted child is easier than you might think. With just a few steps, there's no reason not to get your child a number.
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Step 1: Complete a birth registration form
The easiest way to ask for your child's social security number is at the hospital. After the birth of their child, one of the parents must fill out what is known as a birth notice. How to get your child's birth certificate.
The hospital usually issues this form while the mother is still a patient, but you can apply for it yourself at any time during your stay. There is a box on the birth registration form that you must check to apply for a social security number for your child.
Step 2: Visit the Social Security Office
While the easiest way to secure your child's Social Security number is with prior hospital documentation, not all babies are delivered in the hospital. Many babies are born at home or in another institution. Alternatively, some parents do not receive a birth order form from the hospital for one reason or another.
If any of the above applies to you, yours isSocial Security AdministrationYou can request your child's number here. From your local social security office you will need the following:
- SS-5-Form-This is the social security number application. You can fill it out in advance or at the office. It is available atSocial Security Administration website.
- medical records-You will need at least two documents that prove the baby's age, identity and citizenship status. These are usually your child's birth certificate and medical records.
- parent identification-Finally, bring proof of your own identity. This is usually your driver's license or passport. You must provide at least two separate documents.
You can request your documents in person or by mail. Since you must provide official or certified copies of your documents, it is usually easier to apply in person. There are no fees for a social security card.
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Step 3 - Wait for your child's card
After applying at the hospital or local welfare agency, it's time to wait for your child's card. This takes anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks. HeProcessing timevaries by state.
If your child is over a year old, this process may take even longer. Because the Social Security Administration must contact your state's department of statistics to confirm that your child's birth certificate is valid, this is a lengthy process.
Step 4: Keep your child's card safe
Finally, once you have your child's social security number, keep the card in a safe place. Identity fraud is a real threat, so make sure you have a safe place to keep your card safe. You will need this number for tax, benefit, and other government documents.
It is advisable to keep this with your other important documents. Preferably, keep it in an easy-to-secure safe or other storage system. Learn more about howlong time to save documentsLearn more about backing up legal and government documents here.
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And the adopted children?
If you're adopting a child or baby, you might be wondering what steps you need to take to get a social security number. The good news is that if you adopt a US citizen, they likely already have a social security number. Your adoption agency should provide more information about your records and legal status.
If your adopted baby does not have a number, you will need an Adoption Tax Identification Number (ATIN). This will allow you to apply for tax benefits while the adoption is pending. It is valid for 2 years and may be extended if the adoption has not yet been completed. Once the adoption is legal, follow the same steps above to apply for a social security number.
Finally, if you adopt a child from another country, the process is similar. Again, you will have to wait for the adoption to complete. From there, you can use the same process with the Social Security Administration office.
How can I replace your child's social security card?
Securing your child's social security card is an important step in the process, but accidents do happen. If your child's card is lost or stolen, replacement is easy and free. It is important to note that this is not the caseto needthe physical card. While useful to have, it is more important to havesabrethe number. It rarely needs to be physically displayed.
Arequest a replacement cardFollow these simple steps for your child:
- Gather your child's documents-First, protect documents that prove your child's identity, citizenship, or immigration status. This could be your passport, birth certificate, or other medical documentation.
- Gather your documents-Then gather your own documents. You must prove your identity and your relationship with your child.
- Fill in the application form-fill in theregistration formthe administration of social security. This is the same form (SS-5) used when applying for the initial card.
- Submit the form-Submit the form in person to a local social security office or mail it to your local centre. All documents must be submitted with the form and must be original or notarized.
From there, the local office will review your documents and application. Your card must be received within ten business days of receipt. The card number is the same as your child's previous card.
Back up your child's social security number
Having a social security number is an important part of legal life in the United States. While most government forms and documents are challenging, the Social Security Number process for Newborns and Infants is straightforward. In fact, most parents do their paperwork before leaving the hospital.
If you're getting ready to have a baby, follow the steps above. Knowing what to expect can ensure that you get your child's number quickly and easily. If in doubt, contact your local social security office.
Fuentes
- "How do I replace a social security card for a child?"Social Security Administration.FAQ.SSA.gov.
- "How long will it take to get my baby's social security card that I applied for at the hospital?"Social Security Administration.FAQ.SSA.gov.
- "Social Security Numbers for Children".Social Security Administration.SSA.gov.
FAQs
When a baby is born How do they get a SSN? ›
The easiest way to get a Social Security number (SSN) for your newborn is to apply when you provide information for your baby's birth certificate in the hospital. If you wait to apply for a number at a Social Security office, there may be delays while we verify your child's birth certificate.
How long does it take to issue a Social Security number for a newborn? ›The average processing time is 2 weeks. If you waited the appropriate length of time and still have not received your child's Social Security card, contact your local Social Security office. You also can call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Do newborns automatically get a Social Security number? ›When you give information for your child's birth certificate at the hospital, you'll be asked whether you want to apply for a Social Security number for your child. If you answer “yes,” you will be asked to provide both parents' Social Security numbers.
What if my child does not have a Social Security number? ›If you don't have and are unable to obtain the child's social security number (SSN), you should request an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
Can you claim a newborn without a Social Security number? ›Please note that you may not claim your child as a qualifying child for the EIC on either your original or an amended return if your child doesn't have an SSN on or before the due date of your return (including extensions), even if your child later gets an SSN.
How to get a newborn passport without Social Security number? ›On passport application form DS-11, box #5 asks for the social security number. If you have one, you must put it here. If you or the baby you're filling the application out for don't have a social security number, simply put zeros in each of the nine spaces.
How to obtain a Social Security number? ›To obtain an SSN for the first time, you'll need to submit an application and show us original documents (or copies certified by the issuing agencies). You can begin your application online, but you will need to visit a local Social Security office or card center to complete the application process.
Are kids eligible for SSN? ›Most people apply for their child's Social Security number at birth, usually at the hospital. When the time comes for your child's first job, the number is already in place. For more information on getting your child a Social Security number and card, check out Social Security Numbers for Children.
How do I get Social Security cards for kids? ›- Your identity.
- The child's identity.
- U.S. citizenship if you have not established the child's U.S. citizenship with us.
- Your custody of or relationship to the child.
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.
Can you claim newborn baby on your taxes? ›
Yes, if your child was born alive during the year and the tests for claiming your child as a dependent are met, you may claim her as a dependent. You may also be entitled to claim: The child tax credit (CTC) and/or additional child tax credit (ACTC) Head of household filing status.
What can I claim before baby is born? ›You can get Statutory Shared Parental Pay if you're employed and you're eligible for either: Statutory Maternity Pay or Statutory Adoption Pay. Statutory Paternity Pay and your partner is eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay, Maternity Allowance or Statutory Adoption Pay.
What can I claim if I have a newborn? ›You can get Child Tax Credit or Universal Credit for your child, depending on your circumstances and how much other income you have. You can only make a claim for Child Tax Credit if you already get Working Tax Credit. If you cannot apply for Child Tax Credit, you can apply for Universal Credit instead.
How long does it take to get SSN? ›You should receive your SSN card within 2 weeks after we have everything we need to process your application, including verification of your immigration document with the USCIS. If we are unable to immediately verify your immigration document with the USCIS, it may take 2 additional weeks to receive your card.
Can you apply for SSN without passport? ›Social Security will ask to see a U.S. driver's license, state-issued nondriver identification card, or U.S. passport as proof of identity. If you don't have the specific documents we ask for, we'll ask to see other documents including: Employee ID card. School ID card.
Can babies travel without a passport? ›U.S. and Canadian citizen infants are not required to have a passport for travel by land or sea - although they are required to present a copy of a birth certificate and, if not traveling with both parents, the Department of State suggest a consent letter accompany the other parent(s) due to the rise in instances of ...
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.
What is the fastest you can get a Social Security card? ›You should usually receive it within 7-10 business days from that time. Because we are experiencing slight delays in processing mail-in Social Security card applications, it may take us between 2-4 weeks to process a mail-in application and return the evidence.
What documents required for SSN? ›An acceptable document must be current (not expired) and show your name, identifying information (date of birth or age) and preferably a recent photograph. For example, as proof of identity Social Security must see your: U.S. driver's license; State-issued non-driver identification card; or.
What is the youngest age for Social Security? ›You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, you are entitled to full benefits when you reach your full retirement age. If you delay taking your benefits from your full retirement age up to age 70, your benefit amount will increase.
Can I get an SSN without a job? ›
Of course, you need to get a job in order to apply for an SSN. But, don't be afraid of that. Even working on campus part time makes you eligible, so it's not that hard to become employed.
How do I get the $16728 Social Security bonus? ›Who is eligible for Social Security bonus? For every year that you delay claiming past full retirement age, your monthly benefits will get an 8% “bonus.” That amounts to a whopping 24% if you wait to file until age 70.
How do I get a card without Social Security? ›Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
But you're “generally not required” to provide one if you don't have one, according to the Social Security Administration. Instead, you can obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN, which is available regardless of your immigration status.
Electronic Records Express (ERE) is an initiative by Social Security that offers a secure electronic option for submitting records related to disability claims. SSA strongly encourages electronic submission of medical records, vocational documents, and other materials pertinent to a claimant's case.
What do the middle 2 numbers in Social Security mean? ›The SSN Numbering Scheme
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 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 number will never start a social security number? ›What will not change? 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.
Is everyone required to have a Social Security number? ›Does Everyone Have To Have a Social Security Number? Essentially, yes. You need a Social Security number to apply for a job or a credit card, and you can't collect Social Security benefits in retirement or obtain some other government services without having one.
Can you get a child tax credit without a Social Security number? ›Does my child need to have a Social Security number (SSN) to qualify me for the Child Tax Credit? (updated January 11, 2022) A2. Yes. For your child to qualify you for the Child Tax Credit, your child must have a Social Security number (SSN) that is valid for employment.
Can someone not have a Social Security number? ›No, it is not illegal to not have a social security number. However, it may be difficult to open a bank account or apply for a loan without one.
Can you apply for SSN without a job? ›
Of course, you need to get a job in order to apply for an SSN. But, don't be afraid of that. Even working on campus part time makes you eligible, so it's not that hard to become employed.
What do you use if you don't have a Social Security number? ›If you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN) enter your Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have an SSN or ITIN leave the entry field blank.
Who has Social Security number 1? ›John David Sweeney, Jr. Mr. Sweeney was the son of a wealthy factory owner, and had grown up in a 15-room Westchester County home staffed with servants.
How much do you get back in taxes for a child 2022? ›The Child Tax Credit for tax year 2022 is $2,000 per child for qualifying children through age 16. A portion of this credit is refundable as the Addition Child Tax Credit meaning that eligible families can get it in the form of a refund, even if they owe no federal income tax.
What is the $1000 Child Tax Credit? ›What is Child Tax Credit? The Child Tax Credit program can reduce the Federal tax you owe by $1,000 for each qualifying child under the age of 17. Important changes to the Child Tax Credit will help many families receive advance payments of the credit starting in summer 2021.
Can you file taxes with no income but have a child? ›Can you file taxes with no income but have a child or dependent? If you have no income but have a child/dependent, you can still file your taxes. This may allow you to get a refund if the tax credits you're eligible for are more than your income.
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.
Can you live in the United States without a Social Security number? ›You need an SSN to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive some other government services. If you're temporarily in the United States to work, your employer will ask for your SSN.