QUESTION: Is it illegal to laminate your Social Security card?

ANSWER: No, it is not illegal, but it’s best not to laminate your card. Laminated cards make it difficult, if not impossible, to detect important security features. The Social Security Act requires Social Security to issue cards that cannot be counterfeited. It incorporates many features to protect the card’s integrity. That includes highly specialized paper and printing techniques. Keep your Social Security card in a safe place with your other important papers. Do not carry it with you. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration.