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How to Get Your Child's Social Insurance Number in Canada

Acquiring a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for your child in Canada is an important step in accessing various social benefits and services available to Canadian citizens. This 2000-word guide will walk you through the process and help you successfully secure your child's SIN.

Understanding the Social Insurance Number

The Social Insurance Number is a nine-digit number that Canadian citizens, newcomers, and temporary residents need to work or receive government benefits in Canada. For your child, the SIN is required for certain government services like the Canada Child Benefit. In this article, we will delve into how to get your child's SIN number.

Option 1: Apply In-Person at Service Canada

One method to apply for your child's SIN is in-person application at a Service Canada Centre. When applying in person at a Service Canada point of service, there's no cost involved, and if all your documents are in order, you can get the SIN immediately.

Note the following steps:

• Visit a local Service Canada office. (Find the nearest one using Canada.ca's office finder.)
• Fill out the application form.
• Provide an original (not photocopies or certified copies) document to prove identity and status in Canada. For a child, this can be a birth certificate or adoption certificate.
• For parents or guardians applying on behalf of a child, present your own proof of identity document, along with evidence that you have custody or are the legal guardian of the child.

Option 2: Apply by Mail

If you can't make it to a Service Canada Centre, you can apply by mail. Applying by mail may take more time, but it's an equally valid process. The procedure includes:

• Complete the SIN application form
• Enclose original documents for proof of identity and status in Canada for your child
• Mail the documents to "Service Canada, Social Insurance Registration Office, P.O. Box 7000, Bathurst, New Brunswick, E2A 4T1"

Option 3: Apply Online

Unfortunately, Canada does not yet allow for online applications of a SIN for your child. However, once your child is 12 years old, they can apply for their SIN online.

Register Your Newborn for a SIN

A great option for new parents is to apply for the child's SIN during the childbirth registration process. This program, called the "Newborn Registration Service," is available in several provinces.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Social Insurance Number for your child is crucial. Whether attending a Service Canada Centre, submitting by mail, or registering your newborn at birth, the process can be quite straightforward. Remember always to keep the SIN secure and only share it when necessary. Good luck with your application!