When expecting a child, applying for a Social Security number may not be something that you think of.
Jack Myers with Social Security says with a new baby it can be an exciting and stressful time. Luckily there is a simple solution.
Myers notes you must apply for your baby's Social Security number as soon as possible since it is required to open a savings account, claim them as a dependent on tax returns, and for medical coverage.
If you apply for the SSN at the hospital, in Illinois it will take approximately 3-4 weeks to receive your card. Myers advises if your baby has a different last name from everyone else in the household to contact the Post Office.
Myers says if you don't apply at the hospital, you will have to wait until you receive the birth certificate in the mail and visit a Social Security office.