TN 2 (01-10)

RM 10210.010 Evidence Policy for an Original or New SSN

A. General requirements for an original or new SSN

At least two documents to establish age, identity, and citizenship/lawful alien status are required per RM 10210.020 (Exceptions apply).

Additional documentation is required for:

  • An applicant, age 12 or older, per RM 10205.110;

  • A new (different) SSN request, per RM 10220.005; or

  • An applicant filing on behalf of someone else, per RM 10205.025.

See details:

  • RM 10205.025, Proper Applicant for a Social Security Card

  • RM 10205.110, Mandatory In-Person Interview for SSN Applicants Age 12 or Older

  • RM 10210.020, Number of Documents Required for an SSN

  • RM 10220.005, Overview and Policy for Requests for a New Social Security Number (SSN)

B. Requirements for a work-authorized SSN card

In addition, to the general requirements for an original or new SSN described in RM 10210.010A in this section:

  • A U.S. citizen (either US-born or foreign-born) must also provide evidence of U.S. citizenship; and

  • An alien allowed to work (either foreign-born or US-born) must also provide evidence of a work-authorized lawful alien status. For an example of a US-born alien, see RM 10211.001.

C. Requirements for a nonwork SSN card

In addition to the general requirements for an original or new SSN described in RM 10210.010A in this section, a US- or foreign-born alien without work authorization must also provide evidence establishing a valid nonwork need for an SSN card per RM 10211.610.

NOTE: Exceptions to evidence of lawful alien status apply for aliens residing outside the US, per RM 10211.600, and for undocumented aliens, per RM 10211.500.

D. References

  • RM 10210.015, Evidence Policy for a Replacement SSN Card

  • RM 10210.250, Overview of Evidence of Age for an SSN Card

  • RM 10210.405, Evidence of Identity for an SSN Card

  • RM 10210.500, General Information on Proof of US Citizenship for an SSN Card

  • RM 10211.001, Who Must Submit Evidence of Lawful Alien Status for an SSN Card


To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0110210010
RM 10210.010 - Evidence Policy for an Original or New SSN - 10/25/2010
Batch run: 01/30/2024
Rev:10/25/2010