Your Social Security Number (SSN) is very important, providing you with many benefits. What would happen if you lost it? How long do you have to wait for a replacement Social Security Card (SSC)?
Contact Authorities
If you lost your wallet or purse, you need to try to remember what was inside. You should be prudent and have backup copies in a safe deposit box somewhere. Immediately contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-(800)-772-1213, if you lose your SSC.
Your Social Security (SS) Number is a key form of identification. Unfortunately, losing your SSC might lead to identity theft. Notifying the authorities can start the process for getting a replacement card, help you protect your good name and help the FBI track down criminals.
Identity Theft
If someone used your SSN for the commission of a crime, you will be blamed. If you have warned the authorities ahead-of-time, you have covered your bases. Write down the date and time that you contacted the authorities.
What will law enforcement do? They will track any usage of the SSN, just like they would with a stolen credit card. Since, you reported your SS card as lost, any usage thereafter would be illegal.
This would allow the FBI to track down the criminal. They might be able to recover your SS card. Then, you would be exonerated.
Hopefully, you will never be the victim of identity theft, but the repercussions can be devastating. A criminal might open bank accounts, sign up for credit cards or take out loans using your identity.
How do you explain that your identity was stolen? One of the first things that credit reporting bureaus will ask you is – “Did you notify the authorities?” If you did, then you have a better chance of regaining your good name.
Fixing identity theft can take years. Many transactions are digital or electronic nowadays and face-to-face interaction has been minimized. This increases what can be gained by identity thieves.
Criminals might not even use your SSN themselves, they might sell it. Think about all they could accomplish. They could order a new passport and sign up for government benefits.
Replacement Time
You will be required to submit all certified originals to the Social Security Administration. You will need to file Form SS-5 for replacement cards. Thankfully, a replacement card is free.
You must mail or hand deliver the aforementioned form with the proper documents. The SSA does not accept copies, only originals. If you mail the form, you should insure it.
How long does it take to receiver your replacement card? It all depends on how busy the government is.
Normally, you should receive a replacement SSC within 10 business days. If you need the replacement immediately, the SSA will give you a document stating that your application has been received.
Jim Treebold is a North Carolina based writer. He lives by the mantra of “Learn 1 new thing each day”! Jim loves to write, read, pedal around on his electric bike and dream of big things. Drop him a line if you like his writing, he loves hearing from his readers!