Social Security Q&A

Q: How many Social Security numbers have been issued since the program started?

A: Social Security celebrates its 75th anniversary on August 14, 2010. Since numbers were first issued in November 1936, we have assigned about 460 million numbers. There are more than one billion possible combinations of the 9-digit Social Security number. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/history/ssn/ssncards.html for a complete history of the Social Security number.

Q: How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security's records?

A: To change your citizenship status shown in Social Security records:

— Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can find online at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html; and

— Locate documents proving your:

— New or revised citizenship status (Only certain documents can be accepted as proof of citizenship. These include your U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current immigration documents);

— Age; and

— Identity. Then,

— Take (or mail) your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.