Form SS-5 is used to apply for an SSN. In 1936, the form had 16 questions:
- First, Middle, and Last Names
- Street and number
- Post Office
- Business name of present employer
- Business address of present employer
- Age at last birthday
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Father’s full name
10. Mother’s full maiden name
11. Sex: Male/Female
12. Race: White/Negro/Other
13. If registered with U.S. Employment Service, give number of registration card
14. If you have previously filled out a card like this, state place and date
15. Date signed
16. Employee’s signature, as usually written
You can see an example of the original SS-5, and the accompanying instructions for filling out the form, on the Social Security Administration’s website. You can also see the current version of SS-5.
Researchers can order copies of the SS-5 form for deceased individuals can be ordered from the SSA. As of January 2011, the cost of an SS-5 photocopy is $27 if the SSN is provided, and $29 if it is not provided. Details about ordering are available on the SSA website.
