Social Security Number: What It Is and How It Is Assigned
A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number the Social Security Administration (SSA) assigns to record a person's earnings and help determine eligibility for Social Security benefits and certain government services. The SSA calls it your first and continuous connection to the agency.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
How a child gets one
The SSA says that for a child, you can request an SSN when applying for the birth certificate. If you wait, you must schedule an appointment and provide evidence of the child's age, identity, citizenship and your relationship to the child. This is why a child's birth record is usually the first document tied to the number.
When you need one
- You need an SSN to work.
- Banks and credit companies often ask for it when you open an account.
- Providing your SSN is voluntary even when someone asks for it, according to the SSA, so ask why it is needed and what law requires it.
Protecting it
The SSA advises treating the number as confidential, keeping the card in a safe place and carrying it only when needed. If you think your number was stolen, the SSA's page directs identity theft victims to report it to the Federal Trade Commission.
Name changes
Report legal name changes, such as after marriage or divorce, so your earnings are recorded correctly. A supporting document like a marriage certificate or court order is needed. Make sure the name and number on your card match your employer's payroll records and W-2.
Frequently asked questions
Is an SSN the same as a birth certificate number?
No. The SSN is issued by the SSA. A birth certificate number identifies the filed birth record and is issued by the state or local vital records office.
Can I ask for an SSN for a newborn?
Yes. The SSA says you can request one when applying for the birth certificate.
What if my SSN was stolen?
The SSA's page says to report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission and notes that in rare cases you may qualify for a new number.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
Most popular definitions
- Birth Certificate Number: What It Is and What the Digits Mean
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries
- Authorized Requester: Who Can Order a Certified Vital Record
- Beneficiary: Who Receives Insurance, Accounts or an Estate
Recent definitions
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries
Related guides
To get a death certificate, you order a certified copy from the state or county vital records office where…
Yes, a person can be legally dead and still be alive.
