July 15, 2025 – Applying for a Social Security Number (SSN) for a 2-year-old in the United States is a straightforward process managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). An SSN is essential for a child to access benefits, open bank accounts, or be claimed as a dependent on tax returns. Below is a step-by-step guide to obtaining an SSN for your 2-year-old, based on SSA requirements.

1. Complete Form SS-5
   • Download Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from www.ssa.gov or pick one up at a local Social Security office.
   • Fill out the form with the child’s full name, date of birth, and other required details. Do not sign the form if applying in person; the SSA representative will instruct you. If mailing, a parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of the child.
2. Gather Required Documents
   • Proof of the Child’s Identity: Provide an original or certified copy of a document, such as:
     • U.S. birth certificate (preferred, with a raised seal).
     • U.S. passport.
     • Adoption decree (if applicable, showing the child’s name and date of birth).
       Hospital birth records or religious records (e.g., baptismal certificate) are not accepted for children over 1 year old.
   • Proof of U.S. Citizenship: The U.S. birth certificate or passport typically suffices. If the child was born abroad, provide a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or Certificate of Citizenship.
   • Proof of Your Identity: As the parent or guardian, provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID.
   • Proof of Guardianship: If you’re not the parent listed on the birth certificate (e.g., legal guardian or adoptive parent), provide court documents proving guardianship or adoption.
   • Photocopies: Some offices may accept photocopies for certain documents, but originals or certified copies are preferred. Check with your local office.
3. Visit or Contact a Social Security Office
   • Locate the nearest SSA office using the online locator at www.ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–7:00 PM).
   • Many offices require appointments due to high demand, so call ahead or schedule online. Walk-ins may face long wait times.
   • The child does not need to be present unless the SSA specifically requests it (rare for a 2-year-old).
4. Submit the Application
   • In Person: Bring the completed Form SS-5 and all original documents to the SSA office. The representative will review the application, verify documents, and return originals.
   • By Mail: Mail the completed Form SS-5, signed by a parent or guardian, along with original or certified documents to your local SSA office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of originals. Check with your local office to confirm mailing is accepted, as some require in-person submission.
   • If both parents are unavailable, a legal guardian or authorized representative can apply with proper documentation.
5. Processing and Delivery
   • Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks after the SSA receives all documents. Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or require verification.
   • The SSN card will be mailed to the address provided on Form SS-5. It’s a paper card with the child’s name and nine-digit SSN.
   • Store the card securely and do not carry it daily to prevent identity theft.
6. Additional Tips
   • Free Service: There is no fee to apply for an SSN. Beware of third-party services charging for assistance, as they’re not affiliated with the SSA.
   • Name Accuracy: Ensure the name on Form SS-5 matches the birth certificate exactly to avoid delays. If the child’s name has changed (e.g., due to adoption), provide legal name change documents.
   • Non-Citizens: If your child is not a U.S. citizen, contact the SSA for specific requirements, which may include immigration documents like a permanent resident card.
   • Lost or Damaged Documents: If you lack a birth certificate, contact your state’s vital records office to obtain a certified copy (fees vary by state).
   • Tax Purposes: An SSN is required to claim a child as a dependent on federal tax returns. Apply early if needed for tax season (January–April).
   • Security: Monitor your child’s SSN for identity theft by checking credit reports annually at www.annualcreditreport.com.
7. Special Circumstances
   • Newborns: If you didn’t request an SSN during hospital birth registration (available in most states), follow the steps above.
   • Adopted Children: For domestic adoptions, wait until the adoption is finalized and you have an amended birth certificate. For international adoptions, provide a CRBA or foreign birth certificate with a certified translation.
   • Errors on SSN Card: If the card has incorrect information, reapply with Form SS-5 and proof of the correct details (no fee for corrections).

For more information or assistance, visit www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. If applying from outside the U.S., contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, as processes may differ.