How to Find My Child’s Social Security Number
Finding your child’s Social Security number (SSN) is an essential task for various reasons, such as applying for benefits, enrolling in school, or opening a bank account. However, many parents may not know where to start when searching for this critical piece of information. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding your child’s SSN and provide some tips to keep it secure.
1. Birth Certificate
The most common and straightforward way to find your child’s SSN is by looking at their birth certificate. This document is usually issued by the hospital where your child was born and contains their SSN, full name, date of birth, and parent’s names. If you have misplaced your child’s birth certificate, you can request a new one from the vital records office in the state where your child was born.
2. Hospital Records
If you cannot find your child’s birth certificate, you can also check their hospital records. These records typically include the SSN and other important information about your child’s birth. Contact the hospital where your child was born and ask for a copy of their medical records.
3. Social Security Administration (SSA)
If you have tried the above methods and still cannot find your child’s SSN, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can visit your local SSA office or call their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. When contacting the SSA, be prepared to provide identification and proof of your relationship to your child.
4. Tax Returns
If your child was claimed as a dependent on your tax returns, their SSN should be listed there. You can access previous tax returns by visiting the IRS website or contacting your tax preparer.
5. School Records
Some schools may have your child’s SSN on file. If you have recently enrolled your child in a new school, you can ask the school for a copy of their records to find their SSN.
6. Secure Your Child’s SSN
Once you have found your child’s SSN, it is crucial to keep it secure. Never share it over the phone or in an email, and do not write it down where it can be easily seen or stolen. Teach your child the importance of keeping their SSN private and how to protect it from identity theft.
In conclusion, finding your child’s SSN is an important task that can be accomplished through various methods. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have access to this critical piece of information while keeping it secure.
