A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit identification number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary residents. It is primarily used for tracking earnings, determining eligibility for Social Security benefits, and for tax purposes.
An SSN is essential for various financial and legal activities, including:
Individuals can apply for an SSN by submitting Form SS-5 to the Social Security Administration. The application process requires:
Newborns typically receive an SSN when their parents request one at the hospital during birth registration.
An SSN follows a nine-digit format: XXX-XX-XXXX. Historically, the first three digits were based on the applicant’s location, but as of 2011, SSNs are randomly assigned.
Since an SSN is a critical identifier, safeguarding it is essential to prevent identity theft. Best practices include:
If you suspect SSN fraud or identity theft, take the following steps:
For more details, visit the Social Security Administration website.