How do I dispose of my old Social Security card?
Asked by: Miss Otha Vandervort | Last update: April 22, 2025Score: 5/5 (63 votes)
If the card is in bad shape or damaged, and you have already rec'd a replacement card, my suggestion is cutting the old card up or shredding it. Throwing the card in the trash without shredding it is NOT a good idea. That goes for any documents that reflect personal information.
Is it illegal to throw away a Social Security card?
The necessary measure of protection for government documents and records is provided by 18 U.S.C. § 2071. Section 2071(a) contains a broad prohibition against destruction of government records or attempts to destroy such records.
What to do if your Social Security card gets thrown away?
Contact your local social security office & ask them to replace your card . You will likely have to go there in person with proof of who you are ex a drivers license , a birth certificate , maybe mail addressed to you at your current address. Ask them what kind of ID you need before u go!
Should you shred old Social Security cards?
What you concentrate on is that material that could compromise your security. So any kind of banking information, birth information, social security numbers, medical card material or any sort of investments, stocks, etc. should be shredded.
Why is it illegal to laminate a Social Security card?
The reason given for discouraging lamination is that it can potentially cause certain security features to fail to function. Likewise, you could also encounter a problem if the authenticity of your laminated card is called into question.
How to replace a lost or stolen social security card.
Will the DMV accept a laminated Social Security card?
However, the acceptance of a laminated Social Security card can depend on the policies and practices of your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or licensing agency. To ensure that your laminated Social Security card will be accepted, I recommend contacting your local DMV or licensing agency directly.
Does laminating a Social Security card invalidate it?
Policy on laminating an SSN card. Instruct holders not to laminate their SSN card because lamination can prevent detection of security features on the card. When possible, tell SSN applicants in advance that SSA cannot guarantee the validity of a card that has been laminated.
How to dispose of an old Social Security card?
Invest in a paper shredder or black out any sensitive information before disposing of documents. Never recite your Social Security number in public.
Is it safe to throw away old credit card statements?
Here are several often-overlooked documents that should be securely destroyed. We all know it's important to shred our most sensitive pieces of information—credit card statements or applications, tax-related documents, identity cards, etc.
Where should you not keep your Social Security card?
Sullivan says your Social Security card and any identification or documents that include your Social Security number are perfect examples of what not to keep in your wallet. Those nine digits could make it easier for a fraudster to open loans or credit card accounts in your name.
What happens if you accidentally throw away your birth certificate?
To replace a lost birth certificate, you need to request a certified copy of the birth certificate from the State Department of Health, Office of Vital Records. You can only request the certificate from the state that issued it in the first place — the state where the birth occurred and was recorded.
Is a ripped Social Security card still valid?
The Social Security Administration will only accept originals or certified copies. What happens if my Social Security card is lost or damaged? You can obtain a new Social Security card if your card is lost or damaged.
Why can you only get 10 Social Security cards in a lifetime?
The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (IRTPA) of 2004 (Public Law 108-458 ) limits the number of replacement SSN cards an individual may receive to 3 per year and 10 in a lifetime, beginning with cards issued on or after December 17, 2005.
Should I shred 20 year old bank statements?
Yes, you should shred 20-year-old bank statements. They're well beyond the recommended retention period of 3-7 years for tax and audit purposes. Shredding ensures your personal and financial information remains confidential, protecting against potential identity theft or fraud.
Can I throw away old utility bills?
Keep for a year or less – unless you are deducting an expense on your tax return: Monthly utility/cable/phone bills: Discard these once you know everything is correct.
Is shredding really necessary?
As a general rule, you should always shred unneeded documents that contain your Social Security number (SSN), signature, account numbers, phone number, birthdate, passwords, PINs, and full address.
Is it safe to put old bank statements in recycling?
It could be old bank statements, invoices, CVs, and anything else with personal data. They must be disposed of responsibly to protect the individuals and businesses whose private information they contain – they can't be recycled with paper.
What happens if you throw away your Social Security card?
If you lose your Social Security card, you most likely don't need to replace it with a physical copy; knowing your Social Security number is sufficient, usually. However, we recommend placing a credit freeze on your accounts with all three major credit-reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?
Replacing a Social Security card is free.
Can I use my old Social Security card after divorce?
If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, or court order or need to correct your name for other reasons, you must tell us. This way you can get a replacement Social Security number (SSN) card with your correct legal name.
Why is it illegal to laminate your SSN?
These features are crucial for verifying the card's authenticity and preventing fraud. When individuals laminate their cards, they risk compromising the very security measures designed to protect their identity. The SSA also takes proactive steps to inform SSN applicants about this policy.
Where should you keep your Social Security card?
You should keep your Social Security card in a safe place with your other important papers. Don't carry it with you unless you need to show it to an employer or service provider.
What cards should not be laminated?
Several government documents are printed on special paper, such as passports and social security cards. Since these are unique, they should not be laminated and simply kept in a plastic pouch.