Social Security cards are essential documents that serve as proof of identity and eligibility for various benefits. While these cards are not subject to a traditional expiration date, they can become outdated or invalid under certain circumstances. It’s crucial to understand these circumstances to ensure your card remains valid. Let’s examine the specific scenarios that might necessitate a new Social Security card.
What Is a Social Security Card?
A Social Security card is an identification card issued by the US government. It contains a unique nine-digit number, known as a Social Security number (SSN), which is used to identify individuals, track FICA-taxed income, open accounts, and maintain government data. It is critical to keep this card safe to prevent identity theft, as it contains personal information.
How the Social Security card is used for SSDI/SSI application
Your SSN is essential for accessing various government services and benefits, including SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income). When applying for these and other Social Security benefits, it’s important to have your SSN hand throughout the process to:
- Verify your identity
You do not need your Social Security card to identify yourself and apply for Social Security disability benefits. However, your SSN is necessary to identify yourself during the SSDI/SSI application process. Your SSN verifies your identity and your eligibility for benefits.
- Verifying US citizenship or legal residency
To receive SSDI benefits, you must be a US citizen or a US national or lawfully present in the United States. To be eligible for SSI, you must be a US citizen or must be in one of the following classifications granted by the Department of Homeland Security:
- Lawfully admitted for permanent residence
- Granted conditional entry
- Paroled into the United States
- Admitted as a refugee
- Granted asylum
- An alien whose removal is being withheld
- A Cuban or Haitian entrant
- Admitted as an American immigrant
- Admitted as an Afghan or Iraqi Special Immigrant
- Admitted as an Afghan humanitarian parolee or Afghan Non-Special Immigrant parolee
- Admitted as a Ukrainian humanitarian parolee
Take note that a Social Security card or number is not sufficient proof of lawful status. If you are a US citizen, you must also have a US passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship to prove your status. If you are not a US citizen, sufficient proof includes a Green Card, I-94 form, I-799 work permit, or an order from an immigration judge granting asylum.
- Work history verification
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the SSN on the card to check your work history, which can affect your eligibility and the amount of your benefits.
- Cross-verification with other agencies
The SSA may use your SSN to cross-verify information with other state and federal agencies, such as the Department of Labor or the IRS, during the application process.
- Tracking purposes
The SSA uses the SSN on your card to track the status of your application, update your records, and distribute your benefits once approved. Having your Social Security number ready will expedite the process of getting status updates on your application and making changes to your SSA file.
Do Social Security Cards Expire?
Your Social Security card and its associated number do not expire. They are meant to last throughout your entire lifetime.
When you might need to replace your Social Security card
You don’t need to renew or validate your card periodically, but a replacement card may be necessary if the original is lost or stolen. Certain changes, such as a name change due to marriage or divorce, may also require a new card.
- Lost or stolen card
You might need to replace your Social Security card if it has been lost or stolen. Without this card, you may face problems when required to provide proof of your Social Security number.
- Name change
If you legally change your name due to marriage, divorce, or for any other reason, you will need to replace your Social Security card to reflect your new name. Your Social Security number will remain the same.
- Transition from a non-citizen to a citizen
If you transition from a noncitizen to a citizen of the United States, you will need to replace your Social Security card.
- Change in immigration status
A change in immigration status that allows you to work in the US may require a card replacement. The new card will reflect your updated work status.
What you need to apply for a replacement Social Security card
To apply for a Social Security card, you will need to gather specific personal information and documents. Here is a breakdown of the requirements:
- Personal information
- Full name as it appears on your birth certificate or other legal documents
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Place of birth (city, state, or foreign country)Parents’ names and Social Security numbers
- Contact information
- Phone number
- Mailing address
- Documents to prove identity and other information
- Proof of identity (unexpired passport, unexpired driver’s license, state-issued ID card)
- An original copy of your birth certificate
- Proof of citizenship (US birth certificate, US passport, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of US Citizenship)
- Proof of immigration status (if not a US citizen), which includes:
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Work Authorization Card
- Visa documents
The SSA will only accept original documents or certified copies. Copies or notarized copies are not accepted. You must submit all documents with your application, and they will be returned to you after processing.
Once you gather the necessary information and documents, you can submit the application for your Social Security card either online (if eligible), by mail, or in person at a local SSA office.
Still have questions about Social Security card expiration? Contact LaPorte Law Firm today for expert legal advice. We can guide you through the complexities of Social Security law and find solutions to your problems.
FAQs
If you need to update your Social Security card, you can contact the Social Security Administration to make the appropriate change. Go to the SSA website to determine how to apply. You can apply online or complete an Application for a Social Security Card (Form SSA-5). There is no charge for a replacement card.
Social Security numbers are intended to last your lifetime and do not expire.
To complete an application for a Social Security card, you will need your personal information including your name, your Social Security number, place of birth, and your parents’ names and Social Security numbers. You will need to list your phone number and your mailing address. You’ll also need to provide documents that prove your identity, age, citizenship, and if applicable, immigration status. These documents include an original birth certificate, unexpired driver’s license or passport, and proof of citizenship. The Social Security Administration will only accept originals or certified copies.
You can obtain a new Social Security card if your card is lost or damaged. This new card can be replaced by applying for a new card online or in person at your local Social Security office.
Disability back pay may be taxable depending on your overall income and filing status.
