Social Security Card Replacement - How to Replace Social Security Card

Social Security program began with the Social Security Act of 1935. The nine digits assigned to you remain permanent for the rest of your life. The social security number is used to maintain a check on the individual's accounts. It is also used as an identification and authentication card for the citizens of America. You can apply for Social Security number (SNN), when you start your first job. Under the Act, social security provides insurance for old age, disability and also provides insurance to survivors. It also provides supplemental security income for elderly or disabled people. The money for social security is raised from the taxes paid by the employers and employees as Social Security tax.

The nine digits on your card are divided into the area code, group numbers and serial numbers. Any U.S. Citizen over 18 years of age, who is earning a steady income, is required to use SSN. It is mandatory and there are no exceptions. The social security numbers are not reused after the death of an individual. The number is removed from the active files and stored in the data base. The social security card contains all the data, regarding tax and credit information, school and medical records and other sensitive personal data of an individual.

It is a very stressful time when you lose your social security card. Social security card replacement is free and can be obtained from Social Security Administration. According to the rules, one can obtain a new social security number 3 times in a year. One can apply for 10 replacements during his or her lifetime. When the legal name or non-citizen status changes, these updates are not counted for the above limitations.

Getting a replacement for stolen or lost security card can be a simple procedure. Follow the procedure and keep all your documentation ready to prove your identity at the Social Security Administration office.

One should contact the local city state and federal authorities immediately to let them know about the loss of the card. One must also inform the banks, credit card companies and other financial agencies and let them know you are in the process of getting a replacement.

The documents required for the replacement of your security card are birth certificate, passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, drivers license and the number of your previous Social Security card. For the non U.S. Citizens, the current U.S immigration documents are required. The other documents that are accepted are Form I-551, which includes machine readable immigrant visa along with unexpired foreign passport, I-94 with unexpired foreign passport or work permit card (I-766 or I-688B). One can submit the documents by mail or deliver it personally to the local Social Security Administration.

You should be very careful of possible identity theft, if your lost card. Thus, be sure no one accesses your personal information or use it to acquire loans in your name. If you suspect an identity theft, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTN).

A new duplicate card will be delivered to your mailing address within 7-10 working days. Do not carry the card with you, as you are not required to show the card often. Keep it in a safe place as it contains all your personal data along with your account information. Be careful with the new card and try not to lose it again.