What should you do if you have lost your social security card? If you are self-employed and do not have a W-2 form, can you use your 1099 form?

It’s certainly concerning to lose your Social Security card! Here’s what you need to know, especially as a self-employed individual:

What to Do if You’ve Lost Your Social Security Card:

1. You may not need a new card: In many cases, simply knowing your Social Security Number (SSN) is enough. You usually don’t need the physical card for most transactions.
2. Report it (optional, but recommended for identity theft concerns): While not strictly required, it’s a good idea to monitor your credit and consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit reports if you’re concerned about identity theft. You can also file a police report.
3. Replace it if needed:
   • Online: You can often request a replacement card online through your personal “my Social Security” account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount if you meet certain criteria (U.S. citizen, 18 or older, have a U.S. mailing address, have a driver’s license or state-issued ID from a participating state, and don’t need to make changes to your name, date of birth, etc.).
   • By Mail or In Person: If you don’t qualify for online replacement, you’ll need to fill out Form SS-5, “Application for a Social Security Card,” and provide original documents (or certified copies) proving your:
     • U.S. Citizenship: (e.g., U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport)
     • Age: (e.g., birth certificate)
     • Identity: (e.g., U.S. driver’s license, state-issued non-driver ID, U.S. passport). If you don’t have these, other documents like an employee ID card, school ID, health insurance card (not Medicare), or U.S. military ID may be accepted.
   You can take the completed form and original documents to your local Social Security office or mail them in. The SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies unless certified by the issuing agency.

Can You Use Your 1099 Form if Self-Employed and Don’t Have a W-2?

Yes, when applying for a replacement Social Security card, the Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts a variety of documents to prove your Social Security Number and identity. A 1099 form (such as a 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC) can be used as a document to prove your Social Security Number.

Since you are self-employed, you wouldn’t receive a W-2 form, as that is for traditional employees. Your 1099 forms are the equivalent for reporting your income as an independent contractor.

Important Considerations for Self-Employed Individuals:

• Proof of Identity: While a 1099 can help prove your SSN, you’ll still need a separate document to prove your identity (like a driver’s license or passport).
• Original Documents: The SSA generally only accepts original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them.
• Self-Employment Taxes: As a self-employed individual, you are responsible for paying self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare taxes) on your net earnings. This is typically reported on Schedule SE (Form 1040) when you file your tax return. Your 1099 forms report your gross income, but they do not show any taxes withheld, as clients do not withhold taxes for independent contractors.

It’s always a good idea to visit the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website (www.ssa.gov) or call them at 1-800-772-1213 for the most up-to-date and specific requirements for your situation.