New Security Features for Social Security Cards

The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA), P.L. 108-458, Section 7213(b)(1), mandated that the Social Security Administration and Homeland Security form a joint task force to identify and implement improved security features for Social Security cards.

In April 2007, two changes were made.

• The card issuance date was added to the front of each card and was also added to the perforated attachment to the card.


• Signing instructions were added to the perforated card attachment. The instructions state ADULTS: Sign this card in ink immediately. CHILDREN: Do not sign until age 18 or your first job, whichever is earlier.

Effective April 2007 the cards also began to differentiate between the individual's first and last names by printing them on separate lines.

Additional security features are being added effective October 1, 2007. They include:

• A new background design, called a guilloche background pattern, will replace the existing marbleized pattern. The new pattern will continue to have the security feature of being erasable. This background is computer generated and very difficult to duplicate.
  
• A latent image has been added to the SSN card face, visible only when the document is viewed at specific angle or angles.


• A unique ink color mixture flowing from blue to aqua will color the background of the card.


• Color shifting inks were added to the face of the card. These inks have a multilayer light interference ink pigment imbedded that creates a noticeable color shift when moved in front of a light source. This feature is also used in currency.

All earlier versions of the SS Cards remain valid, and cardholders are not required to have their cards replaced. Therefore, employers are encouraged to use the free, Social Security Number (SSN) verification services offered by SSA to verify that their employees’ names and SSNs match our records.