Social Security Numbers For Newborns U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Social Security Administration SSA Publication No. 05-10023 February 1992 ICN 454925 You have a lot of things on your mind when you have a baby. We realize that getting a Social Security number isn't at the top of your list of "things to do." But we're using this opportunity to tell you why it's important that you get a number for your baby and how easy it is to get one. We'll also answer some other questions you might have about Social Security numbers. Why Should I Get A Social Security Number For My Baby? The main reason you should get a Social Security number for your baby is because there's a law that requires you to have a number for any child age 1 or older listed as a dependent on your tax return. Even though you don't legally need a Social Security number for your child for a year, now is the easiest time to apply. How Do I Apply For A Social Security Number For My Baby? You do not need to fill out a special application or go to a Social Security office to get a Social Security number for your baby. When your hospital representative or doctor asks you for the information needed to complete your baby's birth certificate, all you have to do is tell them to have your State's vital statistics office share the information with the Social Security Administration. If you do, a Social Security card will be mailed to you. It is as easy as that! What Are The Advantages Of Getting A Social Security Number When My Baby Is Born? The chances are that you will need to have a Social Security number for your baby some time in the next few years. Young children need Social Security numbers for many reasons, in addition to the tax reason mentioned earlier. If you plan to open a bank account, buy savings bonds, or apply for some kinds of government services for your child, then your child will need a number. You can apply for a number at birth, or you can wait and get one from Social Security later. The choice is yours. However, applying for a number at birth means that you will not have to visit a Social Security office in person when you need the number. You will not have to fill out a special application form or submit a birth certificate or other evidence to Social Security. To apply for a number at birth, all you have to do is tell your hospital representative or doctor to have the information on your baby's birth certificate sent to Social Security. But, the choice is up to you. Must My Baby Have A Social Security Number Now? No! Getting a Social Security number for your baby is strictly voluntary. You will not get a number unless you ask for one when you provide the information for your baby's birth certificate. If you decide not to ask for a number when your baby is born, you can get one later by contacting the nearest Social Security office. Of course, you will then be asked to provide evidence that you are the child's parent or legal custodian and evidence of your child's age, identity, and citizenship. Your local office can provide you with more information. Will I Have To Pay To Receive A Number? No! There is never a charge for a Social Security card and number. If you are ever contacted by somebody who wants to charge you for getting a card or number, or for any Social Security service, please be aware that the same services are available free of charge from the Social Security Administration. What If I Lose My Baby's Social Security Card? We suggest that you keep your baby's Social Security card in a safe place, as you would any important document. However, should you lose the card, Social Security will replace it at no charge. Just contact your nearest Social Security office. Other Important Information When you apply for a Social Security number, all information provided is kept strictly confidential and is not disclosed except as provided for under the law. For more information about Social Security, contact your nearest Social Security office. Or, you can call our toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. any business day. The Social Security Administration treats all calls confidentially--whether they're made to our toll-free number or to one of our local offices. We also want to ensure that you receive accurate and courteous service. That is why we have a second Social Security representative listen to some incoming and