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Social Security Number Code by State: Understanding the Basics

Written by: Jody Adams
Last updated: January 31, 2024

Are you in the process of applying for a Social Security Number (SSN) but don't know what the social security number code by state means? In this article, we'll dive deep into the topic and provide you with all the information you need to know.

Before we delve into the topic, let's first understand what a social security number is. An SSN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to US citizens, permanent residents, and certain non-immigrants who are authorized to work in the country. It is used to track an individual's earnings throughout their lifetime and determine eligibility for Social Security benefits.

However, did you know that the first three digits of your SSN can reveal information about the state or territory where you applied for your SSN?

Social Security Number Code by State

The first three digits of your SSN are known as the Area Number. The Area Number indicates the geographical region where you applied for your SSN. Each state and territory in the US has its unique Area Number.

Here's a breakdown of the Area Numbers by state:

  • 001-003 - New Hampshire
  • 004-007 - Maine
  • 008-009 - Vermont
  • 010-034 - Massachusetts
  • 035-039 - Rhode Island
  • 040-049 - Connecticut
  • 050-134 - New York
  • 135-158 - New Jersey
  • 159-211 - Pennsylvania
  • 212-220 - Maryland
  • 221-222 - Delaware
  • 223-231 - Virginia
  • 232 - West Virginia
  • 232-236 - North Carolina
  • 237-246 - South Carolina
  • 247-251 - Georgia
  • 252-260 - Florida
  • 261-267 - Alabama
  • 268-302 - Ohio
  • 303-317 - Indiana
  • 318-361 - Illinois
  • 362-386 - Michigan
  • 387-399 - Wisconsin
  • 400-407 - Kentucky
  • 408-415 - Tennessee
  • 416-424 - Mississippi
  • 425-428 - Arkansas
  • 429-432 - Louisiana
  • 433-439 - Oklahoma
  • 440-448 - Texas
  • 449-467 - Minnesota
  • 468-477 - Iowa
  • 478-485 - Missouri
  • 486-500 - North Dakota
  • 501-502 - South Dakota
  • 503-504 - Nebraska
  • 505-508 - Kansas
  • 509-515 - Montana
  • 516-517 - Idaho
  • 518-519 - Wyoming
  • 520 - Colorado
  • 521-524 - New Mexico
  • 525-585 - Arizona
  • 586 - 588 - Utah
  • 589-595 - Nevada
  • 596-599 - Washington
  • 600-601 - California
  • 602-626 - Oregon
  • 627-645 - Alaska
  • 646-647 - Hawaii
  • 648 - 649 - American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands
  • 650-699 - Pacific Islands, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands

Knowing your SSN's Area Number can reveal where you applied for your SSN. However, it is important to note that your SSN's Area Number does not indicate your state of birth or residence.

Verifying your Social Security Number Code by State

Verifying your social security number (SSN) code by state is important for ensuring the accuracy of your personal records. Here are some ways to verify your SSN code by state:

  1. Check your social security card: Your SSN card will have the Area Number listed in the top left corner. You can use this to determine the state or territory where you applied for your SSN.
  2. Check your Social Security Statement: Your Social Security Statement, which you receive annually, will also include your SSN's Area Number.
  3. Contact the Social Security Administration: If you're unable to find your SSN card or Social Security Statement, you can contact the Social Security Administration to request a copy of your SSN record. This record will include your Area Number and other personal information.

It is important to verify your SSN code by state to ensure that your personal records are accurate. If you notice any discrepancies, it is important to contact the Social Security Administration to have them corrected.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I change the Area Number on my SSN?

No, you cannot change the Area Number on your SSN. It is assigned based on the geographical region where you applied for your SSN and cannot be modified.

  1. Do all states have their Area Number?

Yes, all states and territories in the US have their unique Area Number.

  1. What other information can be revealed by the first three digits of an SSN?

The first three digits of an SSN can reveal the geographical region where the SSN was applied, but it cannot reveal any other personal information.

  1. Can I use my SSN from one state in another state?

Yes, your SSN is valid across the entire US and can be used in any state.

  1. If I move to a different state, do I need to get a new SSN?

No, you do not need to get a new SSN if you move to a different state. Your SSN is yours for life and does not change based on location.

To wrap up, the social security number code by state reveals where an individual applied for their SSN, but it does not reveal any other personal information. Your SSN is valid across the entire US and can be used in any state, and you do not need to get a new SSN if you move to a different state. 

If you're in the process of applying for a social security number, make sure to provide accurate information and the required documentation to ensure a smooth application process. Understanding the basics of the social security number code by state can be helpful in verifying information and ensuring the accuracy of your records.  

To learn more about how to find housing for seniors on social security, read through out blogs at Gov-relations for a better grasp on other government assistance programs.

Jody Adams
Jody Adams is an accomplished editor-in-chief with a deep understanding of social care and government benefits issues. With a background in journalism and a master's degree in Public Policy, Jody has spent her career shaping the narrative around social policies and their impact on society. She has worked with renowned publications, effectively bridging the gap between complex policy analysis and public understanding. Jody's editorial expertise ensures that vital information on social care and government benefits reaches a broad audience, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.
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