How easy it is to get a replacement Social Security card will depend on which state you call home. In some states, such as Alabama, this can be done online if you meet the criteria. You’ll need to check if you qualify to apply online first.
The criteria include:
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a valid state ID or driver’s license
- The application must be straightforward as in a simple replacement card, no changes to name
For this post, we’ll assume that you are not allowed to apply online and give you the process to follow accordingly. Aside from this process, you can use application filing replacement Social Security card services or other agencies to assist.
You Must Complete the Application
This can be downloaded from the SSA website. Fill out all the applicable fields and make sure that your details match what is on record. The exception here is where you have legally changed your name. If this is the case, complete the documents in your new name.
Find Out What Supporting Documents to Supply
You’ll need at least two different supporting documents that must correspond to each other and the information on your form. The department must be able to tie up the information that you have provided with the information that they have for you on record.
As a way of combatting fraud, the original documents must be supplied. If you want to send in copies instead, you will need to have these copies certified by the office that originally issued them. A notarized copy is not considered valid.
The documents will also all need to be valid. So, if you are supplying your passport, for example, it should not have expired. The exception is where you have changed your name. You’ll need to provide a valid document in your new name but can use an expired document as proof of your old name.
What are the Rules Regarding Documents?
Only officially issued U.S. government documents will be considered valid proof of citizenship. You can send in your birth certificate, ID, or naturalization certificate in this case.
When it comes to proving your identity, you also need an officially issued document that contains your name ID. For example, your state ID or your driver’s license will work for this purpose.
Also, you need to prove your age. This should be on your passport, state-issued ID, or driver’s license. As proof of age, you can also provide religious records that record your name and date of birth, as long as you were five or younger at that time.
So, a baptismal record from when you were a baby would be fine. A record of your bar mitzvah would not be acceptable because you would have been too old at the time.
Conclusion
You can check out the SSA website to find out all the documents that you can use. You could also use an application filing service as a shortcut to get the form completed and for assistance finding documents you can present.
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