To apply for a Social Security number for your child:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show documents proving your child’s:
  • U.S. citizenship;
  • Age; and
  • Identity.
• Show a document proving your identity.
• 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.  Social Security cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

If you do not yet have proof of your child's citizenship, special rules apply for foreign-born adopted children that allow Social Security to assign a number based on documentation issued by the Department of Homeland Security upon the child’s arrival in the United States. When you receive documentation of your child's citizenship, you can bring it to Social Security, and they will update your child's record.

Please note that the adoption decree (issued in a foreign country or the U.S. ) or a birth certificate is not proof of U.S. citizenship for a foreign-born child.  Proof of U.S. citizenship can be obtained from DHS.

For information on what documentation of U.S. citizenship can be obtained, go to http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/natz/CCA_Update.htm

Social Security also needs evidence that establishes your relationship to the child if your name is not listed as the parent on the child's evidence of age. The adoption decree or the amended U.S. birth certificate will suffice.

Social Security will mail your child’s number and card as soon as they have verified your documents with the issuing offices.
For more information, see Documents You Need for a Social Security Card.