What Is Form SS-5?

Form SS-5 is an official application used to apply for an original Social Security Number (SSN), request a replacement card, or correct information on an existing Social Security record. Managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the form plays a central role in establishing and maintaining identity records for individuals in the United States.

While it is commonly associated with first-time applicants — such as newborns or immigrants applying for an SSN — it is also the same form used to fix clerical errors or request a new card when the original is lost or stolen.

Purpose of Form SS-5

The primary purpose of Form SS-5 is to obtain or update a Social Security Number and the corresponding card issued by the SSA. An SSN is a unique identifier issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain noncitizens who are authorized to work in the U.S. It is required for a variety of activities, including employment, filing taxes, opening financial accounts, applying for government benefits, and verifying identity in both public and private sector systems.

Form SS-5 is used in the following situations:

• First-time issuance of an SSN (typically for a newborn or someone newly eligible)
• Replacement of a lost, stolen, or damaged Social Security card
• Name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order
• Correction of information such as birthdate or citizenship status

Information Required on Form SS-5

To complete Form SS-5, applicants must provide a range of personal details that allow the SSA to verify their identity and eligibility. Required information includes:

• Full name at birth and current legal name
• Date and place of birth
• Citizenship or immigration status
• Sex
• Parent(s)' full names and SSNs, if known
• Contact information and signature

The form also asks about whether the applicant has previously received an SSN, which helps avoid duplicate records and fraud. If the request is for a replacement card or a correction, the existing SSN must be included.

Applicants must also submit documentation to prove age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card (Green Card), or employment authorization document (EAD). All submitted documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency — photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted.

How to Submit Form SS-5

Form SS-5 can be submitted either by mail or in person at a local SSA office. However, due to the requirement for original documents, many people opt to visit a field office directly to avoid sending sensitive documents through the mail.

As of now, Form SS-5 cannot be submitted online for first-time applications or corrections. Some replacement card requests may be completed online through a My Social Security account if certain eligibility conditions are met, but even then, the initial SS-5 form must be completed at some point in the process.

For first-time applicants, the SSA may require an in-person interview to verify identity and documentation, especially for noncitizens or adults applying for their first SSN.

Limitations and Restrictions

There are some limits on how many times a replacement Social Security card can be issued. Individuals can generally receive up to three replacement cards per calendar year and no more than ten in a lifetime, though certain exceptions apply for legal name changes and other valid reasons.

Additionally, individuals must be cautious about errors when filling out Form SS-5. Mistakes or omissions can delay processing or result in incorrect records, which can lead to issues with employment, taxes, or benefit eligibility later on.

It's also important to note that applying for an SSN using false information, or using someone else’s number, is a federal offense with serious legal consequences.

Processing Time and Follow-Up

Once submitted, processing times for Form SS-5 vary. On average, it takes about 7–14 business days to receive a Social Security card after the SSA has received and verified all necessary documentation. If documents are missing or additional verification is required, the process may take longer.

Applicants should keep in mind that the SSA does not charge a fee for issuing a Social Security card or processing Form SS-5. Any third-party service offering to do so for a fee is not affiliated with the government.

The Bottom Line

Form SS-5 is a foundational government form that facilitates the issuance and maintenance of Social Security Numbers in the United States. It is essential for anyone who needs to apply for an SSN, request a replacement card, or make changes to their Social Security record. Because the SSN is tied to employment, taxes, benefits, and identity verification, completing and submitting this form accurately is critical. Knowing when and how to use Form SS-5 helps individuals manage one of the most important identifiers used throughout life in the U.S.