Getting a Social Security number for your newborn is voluntary and there are advantages. Your baby's Social Security card will allow you to:
open a bank account for your child
get medical coverage for your child
apply for government services for your child
buy savings bonds for your child.
The easiest time to do this is when you give information for your child’s birth certificate if you have delivered your baby at the hospital.
If you delivered your baby at home, you will need to submit an application for new social security card. You can apply at a Social Security office with:
a completed application for a Social Security card
original documents proving your child’s U.S. citizenship, age and identity.
Additionally you will need to show documents proving your identity and your relationship to the child (birth certificate should work).