Who the request is for
An adult or a child. Age affects how to apply, and abroad also whether an interview is required.
Help with the SSN process
A Social Security number,
without guessing.
We help you understand how to apply for an SSN, which documents to bring and where to apply. We organize the file and the form, and the submission itself is made with the official authority.
Good to know
- ✓An SSN card is issued by the SSA free of charge. We don't sell it.
- ✓We are not affiliated with the SSA. Our service is preparation and organizing only.
- ✓You submit the documents directly to the SSA or to the mission, not through us.
Before you start
The route depends on your situation.
There isn't one way for everyone. A few simple questions determine how to apply and what to prepare.
Where you are
In the United States you apply at an SSA office. Abroad you apply at an SSA unit at a mission or at the consular section.
A new number or a replacement card
A first application and a request for a replacement card are two different routes, with different requirements.
How we work
Four steps to an organized file.
We understand the situation
Who is applying, where they are, whether it's a first application, and which documents are already in hand.
We build a document list
You get a clear list of what to bring, according to the chosen route.
We prepare the form
We go over the application form together and type according to the details you provide. You review and approve before any submission.
We help with submission
We explain how and where to submit, and help book an appointment when the route requires one.
What to prepare
Documents, in the right version.
You usually need documents that prove age, identity and citizenship. The exact guidelines for each case appear on the website of the SSA.
✓
Proof of citizenshipUsually a US birth certificate or a US passport. For a child born abroad, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is also possible.
✓
Proof of identityA valid document with name, date of birth and usually a photo, such as a US passport. A birth certificate is not accepted as proof of identity.
✓
Original or certified copyThe SSA accepts original documents or copies certified by the issuing body. Photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.
✓
Proof of residence outside the USSomeone who lives abroad and has not received an SSN before may be asked to show they lived outside the US, for example through passports or study and work documents.
✓
Applying outside the USA US citizen abroad can apply at an SSA unit at a selected mission, and in the list on theSSA website for service abroad. A first application from age 12 and up requires a personal interview, and under 12 it can be submitted by mail.
Price
Way USA service fee
- The most common problem: arriving at the appointment missing one document, and being sent home.
Included in the service
- An explanation of the official route
- A document checklist
- Technical help booking an appointment when needed
Not included
- Issuing the SSN card
- The authority's decision
The application and issuing of the SSN card by Social Security are free of charge. The payment is only for private administrative assistance.
Government fees, postage, courier services, notarized translation and third-party costs are not included, unless stated otherwise.
Way USA is a private administrative assistance service, not a government body and not legal advice. There is no promise of approval, a passport, a visa or any result with any authority.
Check if it fits and start the processNeed an SSN?
Let's get organized.
Send a message with the age, the location and what you already have in hand, and together we'll build the starting point.