Welcome to Monterey Peninsula College at Genealogy Research Associates

SOCIAL SECURITY APPLICATION FORMS

This is a wonderful resource for obtaining the original birth place of an immigrant who came in the twentieth century. Often the new immigrant would indicate his exact place and date of birth in the old country, and maybe list his parents as well. To see what can be found on a SS Application form (called a SS-5 form), see the example below:

To begin the process first obtain the information from a search of the Social Security Death Index (SSDI) that is available at www.familysearch.org, at www.ancestry.com, www.genealogy.com or Heritage Quest to name but a few places.

Perhaps you have a copy of the death certificate with the number on it. This would work as well, but I would still look up the information on the SSDI so you can attach a copy with your request. This will make it faster to receive an answer because the government workers who will be handling your request are more familiar with their own forms.

DATE:

Social Security Administration
P.O. Box 17772
Baltimore, Maryland 21290

Dear Freedom of Information Officer,

I would like a copy of the SS-5 application form for the person listed below. I am requesting this under the Freedom of Information Act.

NAME OF PERSON
SS#:
Birth:
Death:

I have enclosed a printout on this individual from the Social Security Death Index to verify that he is deceased.

Enclosed is a check for the $27.00 charge made payable to the Social Security Administration. for this service. Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,

Your name:
Address:

Daytime Phone Number:

To obtain a copy of this record send $27.00 to the Social Security Administration office. Forms are available at the above Internet locations to printout, fill in, and submit with your check.