Have you ever thought of laminating your Social Security card? If yes, it’s quite natural to do so. People usually laminate important documents like ID cards and academic certificates so that they can protect the documents from damage like tearing or any sort of liquid spillage.
For anyone not familiar with the process of lamination, it’s a simple process where a layer of plastic is placed between the document so that it becomes hard and secure.
However, not all documents should be laminated. For instance, it is suggested that Social Security cards should not be laminated. Since it can interfere with their security features and authenticity. The card can also interfere with social security ID scanners and provide problems when you travel, especially during long queues at crowded airports.
As per Marca, while the social security card is not intended to serve as a form of identification, it is generally only needed when starting a new job to verify real identity and avoid fraud.
However, laminating the card may show it as invalid in certain cases, as it will go through digital scanners, that would verify special details. Instead of lamination, the SSA recommends using a removable plastic sleeve to protect the card without damaging it.
Other protective methods also include not carrying the Social Security card in your wallet or purse every day and storing the card in secure and dry places to avoid permanent damage. Furthermore, suppose you have already laminated your Social Security ID. In that case, you can try to peel off the plastic from the card gently, but that could spoil it forever; hence, the best solution is to contact the SSA and ask for a replacement as soon as possible.
Ever wonder what the numbers on your #SocialSecurity card mean? Here’s a short primer on the history of the cards and what’s being done to keep your information safe: https://t.co/rCgXex8utF pic.twitter.com/aI40groytG
— Pennsylvania State Employees’ Retirement System (@PennSERS) August 23, 2024
Additionally, adults should sign their card in ink upon receiving it. Children can wait until they are 18 or begin their first job. Importantly, an unsigned card is still valid, so it’s fine if the child’s card remains unsigned until it’s required. Meanwhile, aside from your social security card, other important documents that should not be laminated include birth certificates, death certificates, COVID-19 vaccine records, citizenship certificates, and marriage and divorce certificates.
Consequently, the SSA has been looking forward to making a significant move towards digital modernization and introducing secure digital access to the social security numbers of the common people of the country this summer. Americans will be able to view this card online through their online portal. All you need to do is have a functioning account with your password. Once you log in, you can easily view your Social Security Number.
3 things to know: Diabetes deaths drop, Social Security cards go digital and scientists are getting a stunning new 3D view of the sun. pic.twitter.com/0oqFrOu5xE
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) April 30, 2025
This particular feature is designed for the citizens of the United States who don’t recall their SSN cards but will be able to access their number without the need for an in-person visit, or they can also wait for a replacement card, which will eventually arrive by mail. Several people have praised this move by the Trump administration, which would provide a seamless user experience as well as fewer chances of losing cards.
However, please keep in mind that even though digital access is introduced, the organization will still be continuing with the traditional methods as well, especially for those who opt for the traditional process. And, as far as laminating physical cards is concerned, proper care is the real key.
