You should get a Social Security card in 2 weeks if you applied for it.If you have waited longer, it is wise to check your status.You should be able to track your application and resolve any issues without problems.The Social Security Administration has a toll-free number that you can call if you want to check out.If there is a problem with your application, you may need to go to a local SSA field office.
Step 1: Allow 2 to 4 weeks for the application to be processed.
Processing times vary by state but, on average, it takes around 2 weeks to receive your card.The current processing time for your state can be found at www.ssa.gov/ssnumber.Wait around 4 weeks for your card if you mail your application instead of going to the field office.
Step 2: If you haven't received your card, you can call the SSA's toll-free number.
You can call if your card doesn't arrive by mail after 2 weeks.Between 7 a.m. and 7 pm, representatives are available.The best times to call are later in the day on Wednesday, Friday and at the end of the month.Wait times are usually at least 45 minutes during the first week of the month.You will have to wait several minutes if you call outside of peak hours.Before you call, grab a magazine or something to distract you.You can call if you are hard of hearing.
Step 3: If possible, have your identifying documents with you.
When you applied for your SSN, gather the documents you presented.If you filed your application at a field office, you should have received a receipt, so have that document on hand as well.The documents could speed up the application process.If you mail your original documents with the application, they will still be able to see your case status.You have to provide your name, date of birth, and field office where you mailed the application.
Step 4: If there is a problem with your application, talk to the representative.
If the application is still pending, you can find out if the card has been mailed.Ask the representative when you will receive your card if your application is still pending.To rule out mailing issues, verify your address with the representative.You need to apply for a new SSN if the card was mailed to the wrong address.If your application got lost, you need to replace your identification documents, such as your passport or birth certificate.
Step 5: You can find your local office on the SSA website.
You might need to visit an SSA field office if you can't resolve your application problems over the phone.You can find the nearest field office by entering your ZIP code into the SSA's search tool.If there is a mailing address mix-up, you will need to go to a field office to submit another application.
Step 6: To schedule an appointment, call the toll-free number.
You can call between 7 a.m. and 7 pm.Inform the representative that you would like to schedule an appointment to resolve the issues with the application.Let them know which field office you plan to visit.If you don't have an appointment, you should wait at least 30 to 60 minutes.You cannot call your local office directly because the SSA doesn't list field office phone numbers.It could take several weeks for you to get an appointment.You can still go to the office without an appointment if you need your card sooner.The wait time will be longer.
Step 7: If you have one, bring it with you.
Bring the application receipt with you if you applied in person.You will need the required identifying documents if you need to file a new application.Proof of citizenship can be found in a passport or birth certificate.Proof of identity includes a passport, driver's license, or other government-issued photo ID.The SSA requires 2 forms of ID for a passport to be valid.The SSA only accepts original documents from the institution that issued the ID.
Step 8: The representative can tell you about your case status.
Find out why you haven't received your card and what you need to do to get it.Inform the representative at the field office about any relevant details from the call if you previously called the toll-free number.If the SSA had the wrong mailing address, you should tell the field office representative that you need to create a new application.
Step 9: You can expect your card to arrive within 7 days.
If you check box 9 and 10 on the application for work authorization, you can easily request an SSN.The SSA will send you a Social Security card after your work authorization case is approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.You will be sent an Employment Authorization Document first.You should get your Social Security card in 7 days.
Step 10: If you haven't received yourEAD, check your case status.
It will take up to 90 days for you to get your work authorization.If they haven't told you by then, look up your case status on the website.
Step 11: You can check your application's status by calling the SSA.
If you have waited longer than 7 days for your card and SSN, you can call 1-800-772-1213.Between 7 a.m. and 7 pm, you can call.To verify your mailing address, ask the representative if your card was mailed.
Step 12: If you have to visit a field office, you should schedule an appointment.
You might have to go to the nearest SSA field office if the phone representative can't help you.You can schedule an appointment by calling the SSA's toll-free number.It could take several weeks for you to get an appointment.You can still go to the field office without an appointment if you need to resolve the issue sooner.You won't have to wait long to see a representative.Wait times can range from 30 to 60 minutes.
Step 13: You must bring your passport, application receipt, andEAD to the field office.
You don't have to worry about getting a Social Security Card if you get an exemption.You should show the field office representative your documents.You can file a new application at the field office.If you didn't get an SSN, there might have been a miscommunication between the SSA and the USCIS.After you submit your application at the field office, you should receive your card within 2 weeks.