We issue three types of Social Security cards depending on an individual's citizen or noncitizen status and whether or not a noncitizen is authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to work in the United States. They include:
1. The first type of card shows the individual's name and Social Security number only. This is the card most people have and reflects the fact that the holder can work in the U.S. without restriction. We issue this card to:
- U.S. citizens; or
- Noncitizens lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence and noncitizens with DHS permission to work permanently in the United States (e.g., refugees and asylees).
2. The second type of card bears, in addition to the individual's name and Social Security number, the legend: "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT." We issue this card to lawful noncitizens who do not have DHS permission to work, but are required by law to provide a Social Security number to get general assistance benefits that they already have qualified for.
3. The third type of card bears, in addition to the individual's name and Social Security number, the legend” "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION." We issue this card to people with DHS permission to work temporarily in the United States.
If you are a noncitizen, we must verify your documents with DHS before we issue a SSN card.
For more details, please see the answer to the Frequently Asked Question, How is SSA protecting Social Security numbers?
Since 1935, there have been 50 different versions of the Social Security card, all of which are still valid.
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