A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned to US citizens, permanent residents, and some temporary residents. It is issued by the US Social Security Administration (SSA) as a means of identity verification for various financial and employment purposes. 

When starting a new job, employers will request your SSN so they can provide the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with details of your earnings and the tax withholdings they make for your contributions to Social Security and Medicare.

Why Do I Need An SSN?

Each unique SSN tracks an individual’s yearly earnings and the number of years they’ve worked. This information is required to calculate the financial benefits that the individual could receive from the US government, whether retirement income, disability income, or health insurance.

In addition, you may also need to use your SSN as identity verification when opening a bank account or other financial account, applying for a federal loan, obtaining a driver’s license or passport, or applying for unemployment benefits. 

Finally, having an SSN provides you with access to various government programs and benefits, including Social Security, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

How To Obtain An SSN?

It is free for a qualifying applicant to obtain an SSN and the corresponding card from the SSA. The applicant must fill out the Form SS-5, which includes a list of documentation you can submit to prove your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status.

When obtained, your SSN is one of the most important pieces of personal information you’ll ever have, so it’s critical to keep it confidential.

How Are SSNs Assigned?

When first introduced in 1936, SSNs followed a strict format of ‘AAA-GG-SSSS’, which was made up of: 

  • An area number: The first three digits were the area number, which represented the issuing state. States may have had more than one area number, depending on population. For example, area numbers for New Hampshire were 001 to 003, and for Hawaii, they were 575 to 576.
  • A group number: The next two digits were the group number, which represented the issuing office. Group numbers ranged from 01 to 99 and weren’t necessarily assigned consecutively. 
  • A serial number: The final four digits were the serial number, ascending from 0001 to 9999 within each group. 

However, starting from June 25, 2011, the SSA began randomly assigning SSNs, still using the ‘XXX-XX-XXXX’ format. This eliminated the geographical significance of the area number and introduced previously unassigned area numbers, excluding 000, 666, and 900–999.

Can You Change Your SSN?

A person can request a new SSN, but only under certain circumstances, such as:

  • Where sequential numbers assigned to family members are causing identity problems.
  • In the rare event that a duplicate SSN has been issued.
  • When a person has been a victim of domestic violence or harassment, and they need to change their SSN for personal safety. If this is the case, third-party evidence, such as a restraining order or police report, will be required.
  • When a person has been a victim of identity theft. Remember to contact the SSA if you suspect that your SSN has been stolen.
  • Where a person has a religious objection to a particular number, such as certain Christians being against the number 666.