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Who Will Qualify for Social Security Retirement in 2025? US Government Confirms Eligibility Requirements

Published

2 days ago

February 3, 2025

Kelly

Who Will Qualify for Social Security Retirement in 2025? US Government Confirms Eligibility Requirements

Social Security plays a significant role in U.S. residency and is an essential requirement for completing various official procedures and formalities. It acts as a fundamental tool for U.S. citizens, enabling them to carry out a range of important activities in daily life.

In fact, everyone residing in the U.S., including non-citizens, is eligible to apply for a Social Security number (SSN). Non-citizens, such as those working, studying, or holding a valid non-work-related reason in the U.S., can also apply for this number.

What is a Social Security Number?

A Social Security number is a unique 9-digit identifier assigned to individuals, which is crucial for various administrative tasks in the country.

It is a non-transferable document that cannot be reassigned or duplicated. When applying for a Social Security card, you must present original documents or certified copies from the agency that issued them.

Photocopies or notarized copies are not acceptable, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not accept receipts as evidence of a pending request. The following actions can be completed with the use of a Social Security number:

File taxes
Start a job
Open a bank account
Apply for a loan
Obtain a passport
Claim government benefits

Documentation Requirements for Adults in the U.S.

For U.S. citizens born in the country, obtaining an original Social Security card requires presenting specific original documents. These documents must meet the SSA’s requirements and prove essential information. Below are the necessary documents based on different criteria:

1. Citizenship

Only certain documents are recognized as proof of U.S. citizenship, including:

U.S. birth certificate
U.S. passport

2. Age

To verify age, the SSA requests a birth certificate if available. If not, other records can be used, such as:

A religious record issued before the age of 5, showing the birth date
Medical records from a U.S. hospital
A U.S. passport

3. For Individuals Aged 12 or Older

If an individual is aged 12 or older and applying for a Social Security number for the first time, an interview will be required by Social Security. The agency will request evidence to prove that the individual has never been assigned an SSN.

Examples of acceptable proof include:

For individuals living outside the U.S. for an extended period, providing a current or prior passport, school records, or employment documents can prove non-assignment of an SSN.
For individuals who have lived in the U.S., providing records of the schools attended or tax returns can demonstrate the lack of a Social Security number.

Identity Verification for Social Security

The SSA will only accept specific documents to verify identity. These documents must be valid, include identifying information (such as date of birth or age), and ideally feature a recent photograph. Acceptable documents include:

U.S. driver’s license
State-issued identification card (non-driver’s license)
U.S. passport

If none of the documents listed above are available, or if a replacement cannot be obtained within 10 days, additional documents may be required, including:

Employee identification card
School ID
Health insurance card (excluding Medicare cards)
U.S. military ID

Acceptable Identity Documents

Document Type	Validity Requirements	Other Information Required
U.S. driver’s license	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
State-issued ID (non-driver)	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
U.S. passport	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
Employee ID	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
School ID	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
Health insurance ID	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo
U.S. military ID	Must be current	Includes name, date of birth, photo

Obtaining a Social Security number is vital for U.S. residents, providing access to essential services and legal rights. Whether you are a citizen or a non-citizen, having an SSN allows you to file taxes, open bank accounts, claim benefits, and engage in other necessary activities.

Following the SSA’s guidelines and submitting the required documentation is crucial to ensure a smooth application process. Make sure to provide the appropriate proof of citizenship, age, and identity to complete your SSN application successfully.