Social Security cards
SSA’s document selector separates adults and children, original and replacement or corrected cards, and citizenship categories. Follow your category. For example, accepted adult identity documents can include a current U.S. driver’s license, state non-driver ID, or U.S. passport. Alternatives and additional evidence depend on your situation.
Legal name changes
Evidence may include a marriage document, divorce decree, court order, or a naturalization certificate showing the new name. SSA may need additional identity evidence. The official checklist explains the conditions; a name-change document alone is not always enough.
Retirement applications
SSA may request a record of your Social Security number, proof of age, citizenship or lawful status if applicable, last year’s W-2 or self-employment tax return, and military service records for service before 1968. Some evidence already in SSA’s records may not need resubmitting. SSA says not to delay a retirement application because documents are missing; it may be able to help obtain them.
Disability applications
Use SSA’s Disability Starter Kit for an adult or its separate SSI child kit. Each has a document checklist and a worksheet for organizing information before an interview or online application.
Check the document format
SSA card applications generally require originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Ordinary photocopies and notarized copies do not substitute for those. Requirements differ by task: SSA accepts photocopies of some retirement evidence, including W-2s. Confirm your specific checklist before mailing or bringing valuable documents.
Common questions
Should everyone bring a birth certificate?
No universal list applies. SSA’s requirements depend on your task and what is already established in its records.
Should I upload my documents to this directory?
No. This directory does not process SSA applications or collect identity documents. Provide evidence only through the method SSA instructs you to use.
Related guides
Official sources
Source pages reviewed November 2, 2026. How this guidance is reviewed. Guidance and eligibility can change. Follow the live official service instructions for your circumstances.