When can you get a Social Security number?

A citizen of the United States can receive a Social Security number at any age by providing a valid document proving U.S. citizenship. Parents can represent children under the age of 12, while those older than 12 must attend an in-person interview.

U.S. children who apply for Social Security numbers after the age of 12 must show evidence to explain why they do not already possess a Social Security number. Examples of these documents include evidence of long-term residency outside the U.S. or tax records showing that the child did not receive a Social Security number prior to the application.