How to update your social security card after citizenship

How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security’s records?

To change your citizenship status shown in Social Security records, you must complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can find online at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html. You must also provide documents proving your:

New or revised citizenship status (We can only accept certain documents as proof of citizenship. These include your U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current immigration documents), age and 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. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

Valerie Fisher is district manager of the Social Security office at 3310 Route 66, Neptune, NJ 07753. Call 800-772-1213 for information.

What Documents Do You Need to Submit?

According to the SSA, if you want to change any information in your record, you need to produce documents that will:

• prove your identity
• support the requested change
• establish the reason for the change

The SSA only accepts certain documents as proof of identity. This includes:

• U.S. driver’s license
• State-issued non-driver’s identification card
• U.S. passport
• Employee ID card
• School ID card
• Health insurance card
• Adoption decree
• Life insurance policy

Submit any one of the above together with your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship and the completed Form SS-5.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies and notarized copies are not acceptable. Any documents you sent by mail will be returned to you along with a receipt.

Why Do You Need to Update Your Social Security Record?

There are a lot of advantages to having an updated social security record. For one, it will make it easier to collect social security benefits in the future.

Outdated social security records may also affect your employment opportunities. When you are hired, your employer will enter your SSN in the E-Verify, a web-based system by the US Department of Homeland Security. This helps them verify your eligibility to work in the US. If your records are not updated, they may think that you are working illegally.

Some disability benefits are also available only to citizens. So updating your citizenship records will ease the process once you apply for such.

When Should You Report Your Change in Citizenship?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services advises waiting at least 10 days after your oath-taking ceremony before updating your records. But don’t wait too long or it might slip your mind.

There are no penalties if you forget to report your change in citizenship. But remember that it’s for your own benefit. So make sure that you find time to do it at some point.

Do I need to update my SSN after naturalization?

How long does it take to update Social Security card after naturalization?

What to update after becoming a U.S. citizen?

Can I update my Social Security status online?