My SSN has 3 parts

The format of a SSN is ###-##-####. Each social security number has these three parts, but what exactly do they stand for? Has it changed over time?

In order, the 3 parts are: the area number, the group number, and the serial number.

Originally, the area number was simply a code for a State.After 1972 the area number identified the mailing address zip code of the applicant.

The two numbers in the middle are the group number, from 01 to 99 and they are within an area, but not necessarily in order.

The final four numbers of your ssn are the serial numbers running from 0001 to 9999.

The Social Security number records are searchable using online techniques that modern investigators use. If you have an interest in this area then click here to learn more



The Social Security Administration has copies of every original application for a card and number. Hard copies.

You can verify a Social Security number's state and year of issue. For anyone.

You are allowed access to the SSDI for information about deceased persons and you may apply for a copy of your ancestor's original SS-5 application form which has a large amount of information for family history genealogy.


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