When you become a US citizen, there’s one thing you should do as soon as possible: update your Social Security number and legal status. You may think this is not important and you can leave it for later. But it’s a crucial step that you really shouldn’t put off.
If you haven’t done it yet or aren’t sure how to go about it, don’t worry. Today, we will explain everything about updating your Social Security number and status.
But first..
Why should you update your Social Security number after naturalization?
When you complete your naturalization process, your immigration status officially changes. You’re no longer a permanent resident—you’re now a US citizen. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs to know as soon as possible.
Your Social Security number is your key to almost everything when it comes to government services. It’s used to get a job, pay taxes, get medical care, apply for benefits, and eventually collect your retirement.
When you apply for a job, most employers use E-Verify to verify your information. This system compares your information with Social Security and the Department of Homeland Security records. If your status hasn’t been updated, E-Verify could flag your application, which could delay the hiring process – or even cause the employer to reject it.
But even if you already have a job, you must upated your Social Security records. If your status doesn’t match your employer’s payroll or W-2 report, the SSA may not credit your work history correctly. This could affect your chances for a promotion – or your retirement benefits down the road.
Plus, now that you’re a US citizen, you may be eligible for new government benefits and assistance programs. These include better medical care, student loans or grants, and health insurance options. Of course, you won’t be able to access any of these benefits if you don’t update your Social Security records.
How to update your Social Security number
There are two ways to update your Social Security number, depending on when you applied for citizenship – before or after April 1, 2024.
That’s because on that date, USCIS updated the N-400 form and added a new section to help you update your Social Security records. This section is still included in the latest version of the form, released on January 20, 2025.
But, this only applies if you used one of these updated versions of the form. If you filed using an older version, you’ll need to update your Social Security number separately.
To make things clearer, let’s go over what you need to do in each case.
If you applied for citizenship after April 1, 2024
As we mentioned above, starting in April 2024, USCIS added a section to the N-400 form related to your Social Security record. By filling out this section, you allow USCIS to share your updated legal status directly with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You don’t have to visit a Social Security office to apply for a new card.
Now, it’s essential to fill out this form section correctly. If there’s a mistake, your update won’t go through.
But just because the process is automatic doesn’t mean your new card will be ready right after your naturalization ceremony. USCIS systems typically take 10 days to update and send your information to the SSA. The SSA then takes about 10 business days to send your new card.
If it’s been more than 14 business days and you still haven’t received it, contact the SSA to follow up.
And if you skipped this section when you filled out the N-400, don’t worry. During your citizenship interview, the immigration officer will ask if you’d like USCIS to handle the update. If you agree, they’ll take care of it.
Did you use the old N-400 Form?
If you applied before April 2024, the automatic process doesn’t apply. You’ll need complete Form SS-5 and submit it to your local Social Security office.
You can find the nearest SSA office using their office locator tool or start the process online.
Along with the SS-5 form, you will also need the following documents:
- Proof of your new immigration status or citizenship. It can be a US passport, naturalization certificate, or citizenship certificate
- Your current Social Security card
- A photo ID, such as your driver’s license, state ID, or US passport.
Important: All documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency. The SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies.
Also, remember that USCIS systems take some time to update after your naturalization ceremony. So, wait at least 10 days before going to the SSA office to avoid making a trip for nothing.
Summing up…
You need to update your Social Security number and status to access the benefits of US citizenship, such as government assistance, loans, and better opportunities for your future. It also helps keep your work history accurate so there are no surprises later when it’s time to apply for a raise or claim your retirement.
If you apply for citizenship after April 2024, you can automatically update your number and status by filling out the Social Security section N-400 form. USCIS will take care of the rest, and you won’t need to visit an office.
But if you filed before that date, you’ll need to go to your local SSA office with the proper documents and take care of it yourself.
That’s all you need to know about updating your Social Security number. But if you still have questions, feel free to leave them in the comments – we’re here to help!