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Kids and Families Home | ![]() Baby's First Number -- A Social Security Number |
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Getting your child a Social Security number should
be near the top of the list of things you need to do as a new parent. Your
child's Social Security number is just the beginning of the valuable protection
and benefits he or she may be eligible for in the future.
Applying for a Social Security card and number for your newborn is voluntary. But, your child needs a Social Security number if you plan to-
You can apply when the baby is born or you can wait until later. It's easy to apply at birth. When you give the information for your baby's birth certificate, you'll be asked if you want to apply for a Social Security number for your baby. If you say "yes," you'll need to provide both parents' Social Security numbers. We'll assign your baby a number and mail the Social Security card directly to you. |
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How to Apply If you wait to apply for your baby's number, you can get an application online, call us at our toll free number, 1-800-772-1213, or visit one of our local Social Security offices. |
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What You Will Need
There is never a charge for a Social Security card and number. Keep your baby's Social Security card in a safe place. It's an important document. If you lose the card, we'll replace it at no charge. |
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Social Security has a toll-free number that operates from
7a.m. to 7p.m., on Monday through Friday: 1-800-772-1213. If you have a touch-tone
phone, recorded information and services are available 24 hours a day,
including weekends and holidays. People who are deaf or hard of hearing
may call our toll-free "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778,
between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Please have your Social
Security number handy when you call us.
Or visit your local Social Security office. |
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Last reviewed or modified Wednesday Apr 01, 2009 |