Social Security

Social Security

The following information, websites and contact information are resources to assist you with questions or concerns that you have about Social Security.  If you cannot find the information you are looking for or need further assistance, please contact Congresswoman Hirono’s Honolulu office at 808-541-1986 or through the contact form.  If you would like to comment on Social Security policy, please click here. 

About Social Security

Social Security has four main components, which offer benefits to Americans.  They include:

  • Retirement benefits: When you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn ‘credits’ toward Social Security benefits after retirement.  Individual benefits depend on how much you earn during your working years and how early you retire and collect Social Security benefits. 
  • Disability benefits: Social Security pays benefits to people who cannot work because they have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
  • Survivors benefits: Similar to life insurance, after the death of a family member, certain family members may be eligible for survivors’ benefits from the Social Security Administration.
  • Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI):  You may be eligible for a supplemental monthly payment if you have low income, few resources, and are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled.

Social Security Contact Information

Social Security Administration Website

Contact Telephone
1-800-772-1213
1-800-325-0778 (TTY)
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
You can find your local Social Security Office here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Social Security:

How should I begin to apply for Social Security Benefits?
How do I obtain a Social Security card?
What do I need to obtain Social Security number/card for my child?
How do I obtain a new Social Security card if mine is lost or stolen?

How should I begin to apply for Social Security Benefits?

You may apply for Social Security benefits through the Social Security website or by visiting your local Social Security office.  Not all offices have the same hours, so be sure to check with your local office before visiting.

How do I obtain a Social Security Card?

Original Card
If you have never had a Social Security card or never been issued a Social Security number, you will need to fill out an application for a Social Security card.  You will need to submit your application in person or by mail to your nearest Social Security office.  In addition, you will need to provide the Social Security Administration proof of your:

  • Age (usually a birth certificate, but other documents may be accepted)
  • Identity and U.S. citizenship (U.S. driver’s license, state issued non-driver ID or U.S. passport)  or lawful alien status (Form I-551, I-94 with unexpired foreign passport, work permit card)

Corrected Name Card
If you legally change your name for any reason, you should notify the SSA, so that you may get your corrected card.  You will need to complete a Social Security card application and provide your local Social Security office proof of your:

  • Legal name change (such as marriage document or divorce decree)

Identity (a government issued photo ID such as a driver’s license showing your old name)

 

What do I need to obtain Social Security number/card for my child?

Like obtaining a Social Security card for an adult, to obtain a social security number for a child under 12, a parent or guardian must complete an application for a Social Security card and provide your local Social Security office proof of:

  • U.S. Citizenship (usually a birth certificate, but other documents such as a U.S. passport will work)
  • Age (usually a birth certificate)
  • Identity (photo ID preferred, but also accepted are medical records, religious records, daycare/school records or ID, and adoption decrees)
  • Documents Proving your (the parent’s) identity (U.S. driver’s license, state issued non-driver ID or U.S. passport is preferred, but others may be accepted)

The Social Security Administration must see any of these documents in the name you want shown on the card. The identity document should be recently issued.

How do I obtain a new Social Security card if mine is lost or stolen?

If you need a replacement Social Security card, you will need to fill out an application for a Social Security card, and show documents proving your identity and citizenship or immigration status to your local Social Security office.

 

My Services