What to Bring to a Social Security Office Visit

Showing up with the right papers the first time is the difference between a 20-minute visit and a second trip. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs original documents or copies certified by the office that issued them — plain photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.

Always bring

• Photo ID — driver's license, state ID, or U.S. passport (unexpired).
• Your Social Security number — you don't need the physical card for most visits, but know the number.
• Any letters the SSA sent you about your visit or claim.

For a new or replacement card

• Proof of citizenship: U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.
• Photo ID (above). For a child: the child's birth certificate and a parent's ID.

For retirement or disability applications

• Birth certificate or other proof of age.
• Most recent W-2 or pay stubs, and your tax return if you're self-employed.
• For disability: names and addresses of doctors and hospitals, and a list of your medications.

Good to know

• The SSA will mail original documents back to you.
• Many services — benefit verification letters, address changes, and card replacement in most states — can be done free online at ssa.gov with no trip at all.
• Never pay a company to get a Social Security card. Cards are free from the SSA, always.