If you are transitioning from a U.S. green card holder to a U.S. citizen, one of the important steps in the process is obtaining your Social Security card. To do this, you’ll need to complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from the Social Security Administration (SSA). After filling out the form, you can either mail your application or take it directly to your local Social Security office.
Form SS-5 is also used for other situations, such as updating your name due to marriage or divorce, applying for a replacement card, requesting a card for your child, or obtaining one for the first time. Below, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain everything you need to know about completing Form SS-5 and securing your Social Security card.
Applying for a Social Security Card with Form SS-5
The process for applying with Form SS-5 is straightforward—and completely free. You cannot file online if you are applying for a card for the first time or making legal name changes. The SSA requires original or certified documents to verify your identity and eligibility. Photocopies or notarized copies that are not certified by the official custodian of the record will not be accepted and may be returned.
Getting Your First Social Security Card
If you’ve never had a Social Security card, you’ll need to complete Form SS-5, gather your supporting documents, and either mail or personally deliver them to your nearest Social Security office. To qualify for an original card, you must provide at least two forms of identification that verify your age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or work-authorized immigration status.
Documents Accepted as Proof of Age:
- Birth certificate (preferred)
- Passport
- Final adoption decree (if applicable)
- U.S. hospital record of birth
- Religious record of birth
Documents Accepted as Proof of Identity:
- U.S. driver’s license
- U.S. state-issued non-driver ID card
- U.S. passport
If you cannot obtain these within ten business days, the SSA may accept alternatives such as:
- U.S. military ID card
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Employee ID card
- Health insurance or Medicaid card
- Certified medical records
Note: Birth certificates, Social Security stubs, or hospital souvenir birth certificates are not valid as proof of identity. Non-U.S. citizens must also submit valid immigration documents and a passport.
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Social Security Card
Be cautious of websites claiming you can apply for a first-time card entirely online. However, if you’re replacing a lost or damaged card, you can apply online by creating an account on the SSA website. Doing so allows you to check your application status, manage benefits, and view your Social Security record.
To replace your card, complete the SS-5 application form and include documentation proving your identity.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, submit your current immigration documents along with your foreign passport.
Documents Required to Prove Citizenship or Immigration Status
U.S. Citizenship:
- U.S. birth certificate or passport
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
Immigration Status:
Submit a current, unexpired document issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that verifies your status, such as:
- Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card)
- Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record)
- Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document)
International students or exchange visitors may also need Form I-20, DS-2019, or a letter from their employer or school authorizing employment.
If you are not authorized to work in the U.S., the SSA can only issue a card for a valid non-work purpose (such as receiving government benefits). In this case, your card will be marked “Not Valid for Employment,” and if you attempt to work, the DHS will be notified.
Protecting Your Social Security Number
Your Social Security Number (SSN) is one of the most important identifiers you have in the United States. Protect it carefully—only share it when absolutely necessary, such as when applying for credit, purchasing property, or completing legal transactions. Scammers often target SSNs to commit identity theft, so never share it by phone, email, or online. Keep your card in a secure place and avoid carrying it daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Form SS-5
How can I access the application for a Social Security card online?
You can apply online for a replacement card through the official SSA website. However, first-time applicants or those requesting name changes must mail or deliver their SS-5 form and original documents in person.
How long does it take to receive a replacement Social Security card?
Replacement cards are usually processed within 10–14 business days after submission. First-time applicants may need two to four weeks.
What should I do if I receive a call about a problem with my SSN?
The SSA rarely calls individuals directly. Be alert to scams or robocalls claiming there’s an issue with your SSN. The SSA will never threaten to suspend your number or demand payment. Report suspicious calls to the Office of the Inspector General.
Can I get a temporary Social Security card?
Yes. You can obtain a temporary card at your local SSA office. U.S. citizens aged 18 or older with valid state IDs can also request temporary cards online. Expect to receive them within 10 business days.
How can I correct or change information on my card?
Complete Form SS-5 again, attach the proper documentation, and mail or deliver it to your nearest SSA office. You’ll need at least two forms of proof verifying your age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or immigration status.
How can I get my Social Security Benefit Statement (SSA-1099 or 1042S)?
The SSA mails this form annually in January. You can also access it online through your Social Security account under the “Replacement Documents” tab or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Can Form SS-5 be submitted online?
No. You may fill out the form online, but you must mail or deliver the signed version along with your original documents to the SSA.
What documents should accompany Form SS-5?
Your supporting documents should verify your age, identity, citizenship, and—if applicable—immigration status. Common examples include passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, or immigration forms like I-766.
What is the purpose of Form SS-5?
Form SS-5 is the official Application for a Social Security Card, used to request new, replacement, or updated cards. Your SSN links your earnings to future Social Security benefits, such as retirement or disability payments.
How Green Card Link Can Help
Adjusting your immigration status—from green card holder to U.S. citizen—requires careful handling of multiple forms and documentation. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys can guide you through each step, ensuring every form is completed accurately and submitted correctly. From helping you file Form SS-5 to managing your citizenship application, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link provide expert legal support to make your transition smooth and successful.