How Do I Get A Temporary Social Security Card?
Key Takeaway:
- A temporary Social Security Card can be obtained in case of loss or theft of the original card, and can be used as a form of identification for employment and other purposes.
- To apply for a temporary Social Security Card, gather necessary documents such as a passport or driver’s license and complete Form SS-5 available online or at the Social Security Administration office.
- To submit the application, visit a Social Security Administration office in person and receive a receipt confirming the application. Processing times for temporary Social Security Cards vary, but it is possible to check the status of the application online.
Are you in need of a temporary Social Security Card? You’re not alone – this is a common problem that can be solved. Read on for a comprehensive guide to obtaining this crucial document.
How to apply for a temporary Social Security Card
Get prepped for a temp Social Security Card! Need to get it done? Follow these steps:
- Gather the docs – ID proof & citizenship.
- Fill out the SS-5 Form with accurate info.
- Submit the application in person at a Social Security Administration office.
Image credits: retiregenz.com by Yuval Jones
Gather necessary documents for application
To obtain a temporary Social Security Card, you need to ensure that you have the necessary documents for your application. Here’s what you need to know.
- Proof of Identity: You must provide a document proving your age, identity, and citizenship status. Original or certified copies are preferable and include passport, driver’s license or state ID.
- Proof of Citizenship: If you were not born in the United States, proof of citizenship is required. Documents like Naturalization Certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad can be used as evidence.
- SSN Evidence: Documents that show your Social Security Number (SSN) is needed which includes a W-2 form from no more than 2 years ago or last year income tax return.
- Proof of Lawful Status: You should provide evidence showing your lawful status if you are not an American citizen. These documents include forms like I-766 employment authorization card or I-551 permanent resident card among others.
Remember that during this process providing original documents typically leads to faster processing times.
It’s important to note that laws regarding temporary Social Security Cards may differ depending on your location. Consult with the Social Security Administration website before beginning the application process.
According to the Social Security Administration website, it can take up to two weeks to receive your temporary Social Security Card after submitting your application with proper documentation.
Get ready to fill out more paperwork than a Russian spy applying for a US visa.
Complete Form SS-5
When it comes to obtaining a temporary Social Security card, filling out the required paperwork is a crucial step in the process. Here’s how to go about completing the necessary forms.
- First, access the Form SS-5 online, or pick up a hard copy from your nearest Social Security office.
- Provide all requested personal information accurately and completely. This will include details like your full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
- Be sure to provide additional documents and identification as required to support your request for a temporary Social Security card.
- Double-check everything before you submit your completed form either online or in person at the Social Security office.
It’s worth noting that in most cases, you’ll need to apply for a replacement Social Security card rather than a temporary one. However, in certain unique situations – such as when you need proof of your Social Security number but aren’t eligible for a replacement card – filing for and obtaining a temporary card may be possible.
According to reports, some people have successfully obtained multiple temporary cards over the years by providing inaccurate information or fraudulent documentation during the application process. It is illegal to provide false information or engage in fraudulent activities with regard to Social Security matters, so it’s important always to be honest and aboveboard when seeking assistance from this agency.
Get ready for real-life waiting room entertainment at the Social Security Administration office, where the only thing temporary is your patience.
Submit application in-person at Social Security Administration office
To apply for a temporary Social Security Card, you can visit the local office of the Social Security Administration. This allows you to apply in-person and submit all the required documents.
Here is a 3-step guide on how to submit an application in-person at Social Security Administration office:
- Gather required documents
- Fill out Form SS-5 and collect supporting documents like driver’s license or passport.
- Visit the local SSA office
- Take your completed form and documents to any local Social Security Office.
- Complete your application process
- Show your original document and collected application form at the counter. The SSA representative will go through all of your materials, confirm your identity, take photos and fingerprints, and issue a card immediately.
It is important to note that only those with specific circumstances such as non-US citizens who are authorized to work may obtain a temporary Social Security Card. Temporary cards are only valid for four months with one allowable three-month extension.
Here are some suggestions if applying for a temporary social security card:
- Collect necessary identification documents earlier.
- Come prepared with all supporting documentation.
- Avoid peak times to reduce wait time as office hours vary around different locations.
Following these suggestions can ensure smooth processing of an application.
Patience is a virtue when waiting for your temporary Social Security Card, but if you’re like me, you prefer instant gratification and a side of sarcasm.
How long does it take to receive a temporary Social Security Card?
To grasp how much time you need to get a temp Social Security Card, pay attention to the processing times. And also check your app’s status. These parts will help you comprehend the timeline of getting your card. Plus, know how to probe where your app is in the process.
Image credits: retiregenz.com by Harry Duncun
Processing times for temporary Social Security Card
The duration it takes to obtain a temporary Social Security Card may vary based on the method employed. Below is an estimate of the waiting time to receive a temporary card using various methods:
| Method | Waiting Time |
| In-Person Application at SSA Office | Instantly (30 minutes to receive) |
| By Mail Application submission | Up to 2 weeks (in most cases) |
| Online Application submission | Around 10 days |
It’s worth noting that other variables may affect the processing time, including your state of residency and any complications in confirming your identity.
One interesting fact is that as per the National Conference of State Legislatures, only ten states issue separate IDs to individuals who don’t qualify for federally compliant REAL ID cards.
Waiting for your temporary Social Security Card is like waiting for a slow-cooking crockpot meal, you just have to sit back and wait for it to be ready.
How to check the status of your temporary Social Security Card application
To know the whereabouts of your temporary Social Security Card application, here’s how to check its status:
- Access the official website of Social Security Administration.
- Select the ‘Check Application Status‘ option provided in the service section on the homepage.
- Enter your 13 digit application receipt number mentioned on your form submission confirmation email, without any hyphens or spaces in between.
- Authenticate yourself by providing other details like name, DOB, SSN(if available) and more as requested.
- Submit and view the status of your temporary Social Security Card application instantly.
- If you don’t have access to a computer or electronic device, dial 1-800-772-1213 and speak with a representative to get an update on your application status over the phone
It may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to receive your temporary social security card. It is important to note that you should not carry it around as if it were a permanent card; instead use it only for specific purposes like employment verification.
Don’t miss out on any updates regarding your application status. Stay informed and plan ahead by regularly checking your temporary Social Security Card status online or over the phone.
Five Facts About How to Get a Temporary Social Security Card:
- ✅ A temporary social security card can be requested from the Social Security Administration (SSA) if your original card is lost or stolen. (Source: SSA)
- ✅ The temporary card will contain the same information as your original card except for the word “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION” printed on it. (Source: SSA)
- ✅ You will need to provide proof of identity and citizenship or lawful alien status to obtain a temporary card. (Source: SSA)
- ✅ You can only request a maximum of three temporary cards in a year and ten in a lifetime. (Source: SSA)
- ✅ It usually takes about 10-14 business days to receive your temporary card from the SSA. (Source: SSA)
FAQs about How Do I Get A Temporary Social Security Card?
How do I get a temporary Social Security card?
If you cannot apply for a new or replacement Social Security card online, you will need to visit your local Social Security office. You will need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship or immigration status, such as a birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents.
Can I get a temporary Social Security card if I lost mine?
Yes, you can get a temporary Social Security card if you lost your original card. You will need to apply for a replacement card at your local Social Security office and provide proof of your identity and citizenship or immigration status.
How long does it take to get a temporary Social Security card?
The process of obtaining a temporary Social Security card should only take a few minutes at your local Social Security office. However, the processing time for a replacement card may take up to 10 business days.
Is there a fee for getting a temporary Social Security card?
There is no fee for obtaining a temporary Social Security card. However, if you need a replacement card, there may be a fee unless you are eligible for a fee waiver.
Can I use a temporary Social Security card for employment purposes?
A temporary Social Security card is not valid for employment purposes. You will need to wait until you receive your permanent replacement card to use for employment verification.
What should I do if I suspect someone is fraudulently using my temporary Social Security card?
If you suspect someone is fraudulently using your temporary Social Security card, you should report the issue to the Social Security Administration immediately. You can contact your local Social Security office or call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
