SOCIAL SECURITY Q & A
QUESTION: How many Social Security numbers have been issued since the program started?
ANSWER: Since numbers were first issued in November 1936, there have been assigned about 460 million numbers. There are about one billion possible combinations of the 9-digit Social Security number. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/history/ssn/ssncards.html for a complete history of the Social Security number.
QUESTION: How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security’s records?
ANSWER: To change your citizenship status shown in Social Security records:
Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can find online at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html; and
Provide documents proving your:
• New or revised citizenship status
• Age
• Identity
Next, take (or mail) your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.
All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The office cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.