Key tips for Social Security number, card

A few things to know about your Social Security number and card:

• There’s no charge to obtain a Social Security number and card. This service is free.

• To prevent identity theft, keep your Social Security card in a safe place with your other important papers and be careful about sharing your number. If asked for your number, find out why your number is needed, how it will be used and what happens if you refuse to provide it.

• While you need a Social Security number to get a job or other services, you often don’t need to show your Social Security card. Many organizations can verify your Social Security number directly.

• If your Social Security card is lost, you can replace it up to three times a year with a lifetime limit of 10 replacement cards. Legal name changes and other exceptions don’t count toward the limits.

• You can request a replacement Social Security card with the ease and convenience of our online services if you have a my Social Security account and meet our qualifications. Go to social security.gov/myaccount.

• Beginning in June 2011, we assigned Social Security numbers randomly, which protects the integrity of the Social Security number, eliminates the geographical significance of the first three digits of the Social Security number and extends the longevity of the nine-digit Social Security number.

• Information about applying for a Social Security card, name changes, identity theft and frequently asked ques- tions is available at social security.gov, or by calling toll-free at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778).