BASIC (08-09)

A. Proper applicant is a relative with custody of a child under age 18

A brother, sister, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or cousin with custody of a child is a proper applicant when no one higher on the priority list in RM 10205.025 exists. If the number holder (NH) is age 18 or older, refer to RM 10205.055 – Proper Applicant is an Individual Who can Establish Relationship and Responsibility.

B. Evidence needed for a relative with custody to be proper applicant

In addition to documents required for the person to whom the SSN is issued, i.e., evidence of age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or current lawful alien status (or, if not authorized to work in the U.S., evidence of a current valid nonwork need) appropriate to the type of SSN card requested, you must also obtain the following evidence from the proper applicant.

1. Proof of identity of the applicant

We must see proof of identity for the person filing the application.

2. Evidence of relationship

The applicant must establish his or her relationship to the NH. The type of documents needed will vary based on the type of relationship alleged, but could include marriage records, birth certificates of other individuals, etc. In some cases, it may be easier to find that the individual qualifies as a proper applicant by establishing relationship and responsibility per RM 10205.055.

3. Evidence of custody/responsibility

The applicant must submit evidence to establish custody and responsibility. A court document showing the applicant has custody is sufficient to establish custody and responsibility.

The applicant may provide other evidence of custody and responsibility such as a letter from a State Social Services agency placing the child in the individual's household, a school record indicating that the individual has responsibility for the child, a physician’s statement, or a rental agreement listing the child in the household of the applicant. If such evidence is not available, see if the individual qualifies as a proper applicant by establishing relationship and responsibility per RM 10205.055.

C. References

RM 10210.010 and RM 10201.015, Evidence Required for an SSN Card