Federal Benefits

Social Security Information

How to Apply for a Social Security Account

Click to download social security form SS-5-FS

If you never had a social security number before, but are entitled to one (you are an American citizen), or if you need to replace your social security card, please visit the U.S. Consulate during ACS hours (M-W-F, 0900-1100) or during our consular visits to St. Maarten and Aruba.

In order to apply, you need the following documents:

1. Proof of age (birth certificate)
2. Proof of citizenship (passport)
3. If you are 12 years or older, you must apply in person and submit a written document in which an explanation is provided on why a social security number was never applied for.
4. If parents are applying for their minor child (in concurrence with a birth certificate) a copy of the (U.S.) parent is also required.
5. Completed SS-5-FS form.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.  We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

We will copy and certify your records so that you do not have to send original documents through the mail. Do NOT mail original documents to the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, Maryland.

Social Security will mail your number and card as soon as your documents have been verified with the issuing entity. This takes about 3 months if you apply from the Netherlands Antilles or Aruba. If you need your Social Security number urgently, you should apply directly with a Social Security office in the U.S.

For more information, please see: www.ssa.gov

How to Apply for Benefits

The U.S. Consulate in Curaçao is a non-claims-taking-post.  This means that the Consulate is not authorized to take in your application to claim your retirement or other benefits.  If you live in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba and you want to apply for benefits,  you should write to the following address, explain in writing why you think you are eligible to receive benefits and include supporting documentation.  You will be sent the correct forms to fill out.

Social Security Administration
PO BOX 17769
Baltimore, MD 21235

You can also apply for benefits online at www.ssa.gov

For more information, call (00-) 1-800-772-1213  (This number is not free of charge if you call from outside of the United States. You will be charged international direct dialing rates.)

Social Security Payments

Please see the following link for more information on payments outside the U.S.:

http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10137.html

Contact the ACS unit if you need assistance with receipt of your monthly social security check, have a change of address or if you have questions about direct deposit.