Table of Contents
What can I use to verify my identity?
How to verify your identity
- Your State-Issued ID. You can upload a photo by phone or by computer.
- A phone or computer with a camera to take a photo of yourself (not always required)
- Social Security Number.
- A phone number on a phone plan that is in your name.
How can I verify my own Social Security number?
If you want to verify SSNs for other than wage reporting purposes you must use our Consent Based SSN Verification Service (CBSV) which you can access from our website at www.socialsecurity.gov/cbsv. If you want to verify your own SSN, you must have proof of identity and visit your local Social Security Field Office.
Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN) card?
Note: For REAL ID document purposes, you may not need a Social Security number (SSN) card as proof of an SSN. Instead, a recent pay stub, W-2 (wage and tax statement), SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefit Statement) or other tax documents showing your full name and entire SSN may be acceptable proof of your SSN.
Where can I learn about the Real ID requirements in my state?
To learn about the REAL ID requirements in your state, check with your Department of Motor Vehicles or appropriate agency. You can use a my Social Security account to apply for a replacement Social Security card online if you:
Is it easier to replace a Social Security card or ID?
State ID cards (such as driver’s licenses) are generally easier to replace than social security cards or birth certificates. On the other hand, losing a state ID can be much more annoying in the short term, as they are the most commonly used form of ID in day-to-day interactions.
Can I get a new ID if I Lost my ID?
Losing your ID and other important documents is one of the most annoying things that can happen. Fortunately, it is possible to replace all of your vital records and documents. Even though it will take some time, you will be able to get a new ID, social security card, and any other document you might have lost.