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Social Security Notification for Naturalized Citizens

Citizenship application in Tennessee

If you become naturalized through citizenship application in Memphis or Nashville, there are additional steps you should now take as a U.S. citizen.  The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommend getting a U.S. passport for purposes of identification and documentation of citizenship.  Because the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires notification of changes in immigration status or citizenship, the USICS also recommends reporting your citizenship status to the SSA as soon as possible.

How to notify the SSA about citizenship status

• You can send information through the mail.  However, going in person to the closest Social Security Office in your area is recommended.  To find the closest office, you can use the Social Security Office locator (https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp).

• Bring proof of U.S. citizenship with you to the SSA office.  Your U.S. passport or your Certificate of Naturalization are acceptable as proof.  You should also bring a picture I.D. card or driver’s license.

• The Form SS-5 is the Social Security form used for immigration or citizenship changes.  You may download an SS-5 form by going to the Social Security Online Forms page (http://www.ssa.gov/online/), which you can print, fill out, and bring with you to the SSA office.  (Forms are available in Spanish and English.)  You can also request a form at the SSA office and fill it out there.

• An SSA staff member interviews you and verifies your citizenship.  The staff member updates records to reflect your citizenship status.  Unless your previous social security card had restrictions, you are generally not issued a new Social Security card.  That said, you may request a new card during your interview if you wish.

Benefits from citizenship status notification

• Social Security benefits are granted more readily to citizens than immigrants
• In certain states, U.S. citizens enjoy Social Security disability benefits that immigrants do not
• Lost Social Security cards are easier to replace for citizens than immigrants
• Federal and state agencies frequently access the Social Security database and can see and upgrade individuals from immigrant to citizenship status, which provides more widespread validation of citizenship.

The Frager Law firm offers Tennessee citizenship application services.  The firm has nearly two decades of experience helping clients attain U.S. citizenship.  For Memphis citizenship application, call 901-763-3188.  For a Nashville citizenship application, call 615-366-1000.  Call our Tennessee immigration and naturalization law firm toll free 888-889-VISA (8472) or contact us online.