Facts about the Social Security Replacement template

Contents

1. What is a Social Security replacement card application form?

The application for a Social Security replacement card is a form issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows people to request a new Social Security card for one that has been lost, stolen or destroyed. It is the same form needed to request an original card.

The only differences in completing the form for an initial card and a replacement card are:

A. The applicant must indicate on the form that it is a request for a replacement card.

B. The documentary requirements are slightly reduced (one form of ID instead of at least two).

The official form is known as SS-5. It is straightforward and focused on the applicant’s identity. This includes the applicant's legal name, name at birth, place of birth, parents’ names and Social Security numbers (if known) and other personal information. The form can be completed by the applicant, a parent, a legal guardian or a person authorized to assist the applicant.

In addition to requesting a replacement card, the Social Security application can be used to amend aspects of the applicant’s Social Security record, such as last names related to marriage or divorce. There is a limit of three card replacements per calendar year and 10 replacements in a lifetime. However, in some circumstances, the SSA may grant an exception if evidence is provided that such an exception is appropriate.

2. How do I use a Social Security application form to replace my card?

The Social Security application is used when someone needs to apply for an original Social Security card, apply for a replacement card or change their Social Security record. Social Security numbers are needed when applying for a job in the U.S., applying for Social Security or Medicare benefits, seeking various government services and applying for financial services from U.S. institutions. In most cases, simply knowing your number is sufficient; however, there are some circumstances where the federal or state government or employer may require you to show your physical card. All U.S. citizens can receive their Social Security Number and card, as can noncitizens authorized to work in the United States.

3. Why should I use a Social Security application form?

If you lose your Social Security card, it gets stolen, or it is destroyed, you should complete a Social Security application to obtain a new card. Always keep your Social Security card in a safe place. Your Social Security Number (SSN) is used for much more than managing Social Security benefits. It is used to identify you when filing taxes or applying for a job or mortgage. While you may not always need the card, having it in your safe possession can be useful for identification purposes.

4. How do I complete an application to replace my Social Security card?

Completing a Social Security application for a replacement card is a fairly simple process.

  • Your identity:

    On the form, you must include your name, other names used, place of birth, date of birth, citizenship status and sex. You can also indicate your race and ethnicity, but they are not required fields.

  • Your Parents’ Identities:

    You must include your parents’ names at their birth and their Social Security Numbers (if known).

  • Previous Social Security Details:

    If you have an existing Social Security record, you will need to indicate that on the form. You can include details such as a previously assigned SSN and birth date.

  • Address:

    You must include your mailing address. This is needed to send you the physical card.

  • Declaration:

    You must sign the application for a Social Security Card once completed. This includes a sworn declaration that all the information included is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.

  • Forms of Identification:

    You must provide your current identification. The most common options include a driver’s license, state identification card and passport. The instructions describe which other forms of ID you can use.

5. How to complete a Social Security application to replace a card with LegalSimpli in 5 steps

  • 1. Gather your information

    Completing a Social Security application for a replacement card requires you to provide information about yourself and your parents. Gathering all the necessary information first makes completing the form significantly easier. Locating the original documents, such as your birth certificate, is helpful.

  • 2. Select the best online service

    Next, you will want to select an online service to help you quickly and easily complete the form. Consider using LegalSimpli. This allows you to fill out legal paperwork easily using most browsers. The process is fast and simple, plus LegalSimpli lets you easily edit any PDF form in whatever way you may need.

  • 3. Fill out the form

    Using LegalSimpli, go through the SS-5 form and fill out each box. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific spaces for all the information you need to provide and instructions on how to complete the form. You can always contact the SSA if you need special assistance, such as guidance on nonstandard identification.

  • 4. Review the document

    Once you have completed the document, take the time to review it thoroughly. The application for a Social Security replacement card is a legal document in which you must declare that your information is true and correct to the best of your knowledge. Because Social Security Numbers are important for identifying you, such as when applying for a job, credit card, or loan, you must be certain about the information you provide. Plus, taking the time to review the form will help avoid any mistakes that may delay the process of getting your replacement card.

  • 5. Sign, print and send

    Finally, you are ready to sign the document. You can do this easily online using LegalSimpli by drawing, typing or uploading your signature file. Then, you can print directly from most web browsers. Once you have a signed and printed copy, you can mail it to the Social Security Administration along with the necessary documentation.

FAQ: Social Security replacement card frequently asked questions

A1: No, requesting a replacement for your Social Security card is free, whether you’re requesting an original or a replacement card. The easiest way to do this is to complete an online application for a Social Security replacement card. However, you can also visit your local Social Security Administration office to request the form.

A2: U.S. citizens and legal noncitizens who are authorized to work may request a Social Security replacement card. In some cases, noncitizens may also request a Social Security card. If you had an original Social Security card, you can request a replacement card, provided that you haven’t hit the limit for replacements (three in a year and 10 in a lifetime, with some exceptions allowed).

A3: Required documentation can include proof of your age, name, and citizenship or immigration status. Examples include a birth certificate, passport, driver’s license and immigration form. The Social Security application for a replacement card includes examples of the types of documents accepted by the Social Security Administration to satisfy each field of the form.

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