How do I find the Social Security number of a deceased relative?
Andrew Mclaughlin
Published Apr 06, 2026
Find an SSN by Getting Your Father’s Social Security Records You can use an online form called Request for a Deceased Individual’s Social Security History, or download, print and mail in form SS-771. This record includes the person’s Social Security application in addition to the SSN.
Do newborns automatically get a Social Security number?
Getting a Social Security number for your newborn is voluntary. But, getting a number when your child is born is a good idea. How do I apply? At the hospital: When you give information for your baby’s birth certificate, you’ll be asked whether you want to apply for a Social Security number for your baby.
What is the Social Security death benefit for a surviving child?
Within a family, a child can receive up to half of the parent’s full retirement or disability benefits. If a child receives survivors benefits, they can get up to 75% of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit. It can be from 150% to 180% of the parent’s full benefit amount.
Can a grandparent get a grandchild’s Social Security card?
A. Your grandson can be issued a new Social Security card at your local Social Security office. He will need to file a new application for a card and provide proof of his identity and U. S. citizenship or legal resident status.
Can I get my baby Social Security number online?
The easiest way to apply for a Social Security number for your child is to complete a birth registration form, which has a box you can check to request a number for your child. To save time, download and complete Form SS-5 from the SSA website () before you go.
When do you get a Social Security number for a newborn?
You can apply for a Social Security Number for a newborn after you give birth at a hospital. Usually, this option is presented to you when you provide workers with information for your child’s birth certificate.
Where can I find the Social Security number of a deceased relative?
Decided which deceased relative you want to find. Have birth and death dates available. Go to the SSDI. Click “Best Matches(Ranked)”. Enter as much information as you can and search. Browse results until you find your family member. Copy information.
How to add a deceased father to a birth certificate?
Fill out the necessary forms to initiate the action; the type and nature of each form will vary depending on the county court rules. Offer proof to the judge that the deceased is the father of the child. Since the father is dead, you will need to offer the genetic evidence obtained in Step 1.
Can you get a Social Security card if you give birth in a hospital?
If you give birth in a hospital, you may be prompted to obtain a Social Security card for your baby by hospital staff. Remember that this is the same as applying for an SSN for your child.