How to Get a Replacement Social Security Card For Your Child

Published September 25, 2023

Typically, parents apply for their child’s social security card at birth. Yet, most of the time, the child only gets to use it on their first job. Also, for applying for a driver’s license. For this reason, the card may not seem so valuable. It may be misplaced or lost. Spoiler, it is imperative.

Are you having a dilemma of losing your child’s social security card? In this article, we’ll talk about it. We’ll walk you through the process of acquiring a replacement social security card for your child. Let’s waste no more time and begin. 

What Is a Social Security Card?

A social security card is an official record of the Social Security Administration in the United States. It contains a unique nine-digit Social Security Number. It is assigned to individuals for identification and record-keeping purposes. 

It also serves as proof of a person’s legal identity. Moreover, their authorization to work in the country. It serves a number of purposes, including:

1. Employment 

Employers demand employees have their social security number and card. It is as part of their hiring process. The information in it is often needed for tax reporting. More importantly, verification of the employee’s eligibility to work in the country.

2. Government Benefits 

The social security number on a person’s card is connected to their employment history. Also, their earnings. The SSA uses this data to determine eligibility. Also, in calculating program benefits. For instance, Social Security Retirement, disability, and Medicare.

3. Taxation 

The social security number is also applied for tax purposes. Individuals must contain their SSNs on their federal income tax returns. It is when filing with the Internal Revenue Service. 

4. Financial Transactions 

The social security number may also be required for various financial transactions. It may display a need for loans. Also, for opening bank accounts. Lastly, for credit cards. 

That is why you must keep your child’s social security card in a safe place. You must also refrain from sharing your SSN unless necessary. In doing so, you safeguard identity theft. Moreover, the unauthorized use of your social security number.

Social Security Card for Children

Many government programs need a child’s social security number for eligibility and enrollment. These programs may include healthcare and education. Also, financial help, and social welfare benefits. It guarantees that children can access these benefits and services. 

As children grow older, they may also express interest in earning income. It may be through part-time jobs or other sources. In such cases, a social security number is essential for tax purposes. It enables them to file taxes. Also, to follow the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations.

What Do I Need to Get a Replacement Social Security Card for My Child?

1. Your child’s identity 

To prove your child’s identity, you need to present a document affirming your child’s name, identifying information, and preferably a photograph, such as: 

• State issued non driver identification card 
• U’S. passport 
• Adoption decree 
• Doctor, clinic, or hospital record 
• Religious record 
• School or daycare center record 
• School identification card 

Remember, you can use a birth certificate to prove your child’s age and citizenship. But you cannot apply it as proof of identity. The Social Security Administration requires evidence that confirms the child continues to exist after the date of birth. 

2. Your child’s age 

You must pass a U.S. birth certificate to prove your child’s age. If it doesn’t exist, you can validate this requirement through: 

• Religious records made before the age of five display the date of birth. 
• U.S. hospital record of birth. 
• U.S. passport

3. Your child’s U.S. citizenship

To validate your child’s citizenship, bring one of the following documents: 

• U.S. birth certificate 
• U.S. consular report of birth abroad. 
• U.S. passport 
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship

4. Your own identity 

It includes a document showing your name, identifying data, and a photo. Below are the examples, pick one: 

• U.S. driver’s license 
• State-issued nondriver’s identification card 
• U.S. passport 

All the documents must be original. They may also be copies certified by the agency that issued them. SSA does not accept photocopies and notarized copies. Moreover, all documents must be current and not expired. 

How to Get a Replacement Social Security Card for My Child?

You can use the online Social Security Number and Card application to get your child a replacement Social Security card. It is available at www.ssa.gov.ssnumber. You will begin the application online. Then, complete the process in a local Social Security office. You can also go to a card center. 

Suppose you’re unable to apply online. You can fill out and print the application for a Social Security Card. It is form SS-5 and accessible at www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf/. 

Replacement Social Security Card for Child Online Free

Applying for a renewal social security card is free of charge. Yet, suppose you lack the necessary documents on hand. It is only the time you may pay for them. Also, some agencies may demand payment for certifying a document copy.