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When a parent requests a Social Security number (SSN) for his/her newborn as part of the birth registration process in the hospital, the state vital statistics office forwards to the Social Security Administration (SSA) data we need to assign an SSN to the child and issue a card. This is known as the Enumeration at Birth (EAB) process. Once SSA receives the data, the process of assigning the number and issuing the card is the same as if the application were taken in a Social Security office.

In most states, the birth registration process is electronic. Hospitals submit birth registration information through local registrars to the state, where the information is entered into an automated database. In most states this process is completed and EAB data is sent to the Social Security Administration within 60 days of birth, but see the chart below for the actual time for your state. EAB is a good service for most parents who have no immediate need for their child's SSN because they do not have to submit an application and evidentiary documents to a Social Security office.

If you have not received your child's SSN card, consult the chart below. Find your state/jurisdiction abbreviation (NYC is New York City) and you will see the average wait time for receiving your child's SSN card in the mail. If you have not received your child’s card, and the time frame has expired, please visit your local Social Security office.

Please note:  We cannot release your child’s Social Security number over the telephone.  

If you need to visit an office, be sure to bring the following documents along with you:  

• Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and 
• Documents proving your child’s: 
• • U.S. citizenship; 
  • Age; and 
  • Identity.
• Document proving your identity.