SSN Policy Manual

Dealing With Federal Agencies

Social Security Administration Few people realize that social security is a totally voluntary system, and they can avoid it by never obtaining a social security number. They can get out of social security if they simply stop using a social security number. However, the latter is more difficult to accomplish and the longer you have resided within the system, the longer and more difficult it is to get out of the system. You get into the system by obtaining a social security card. You avoid the system by not getting a social security card. You sidestep the system by getting your application for a social security card rejected, and you get out of the system by not using a social security number for at least ten years. Obtaining a Social Security Number Any 1awfi.d resident of the United States may obtain a social security number by completing the Application for a Social Security Card (SS-5). This application is used by anyone who has never been issued a social security card, needs a replacement card or has changed his or her name. Complete the SS-5 using the accompanying instructions. The instructions also list the kind of evidence that you need to submit with your application. Finally, take or mail the SS-5 to the nearest Social Security office. The Social Security Administration will return your original documents right away and send you a Social Security Card in about two weeks. You can get the Application for a SociaI Security Card (SS-5) from any local Social Security Administration office. Getting Your Application Rejected Many people may wonder why you would want to fill out an Application for a Social Security Card in the first place---especially if your only intent is to have the application rejected. The reason is that the Social Security Administration has begun issuing a special ineligibility letter (SSA-L676) to people who are not eligible for social security numbers and these letters are accepted by the State agencies who issue driver's license as a valid reason for not having a social security number. See "Get a Letter of Ineligibility from the Social Security Administration" on page 82 for more information about getting a driver's license using this letter. You get your application for a social security card rejected by completing the application form in such a way that causes the Social Security Administration to believe that you are an illegal alien. You get the rejection letter issued immediately if you submit the application in person at any local Social Security Administration office and they reject the application. You should use your real name (so that the letter is addressed to you), but you need to use a different place of birth, mother and father and addresses from your real ones. They will reject the application because you have none of the required supporting documentation, such as an American birth certificate, ID card, or visa.